Document Dawsoncountyga_doc_cb63d4c100

Voting Session Minutes- January 6, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS VOTING SESSION MINUTES – JANUARY 6, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 6:00PM ROLL CALL: Those present were Chairman Berg; Commissioner Pichon, District 1; Commissioner Swafford, District 2; Commissioner Hamby, District 3; Commissioner Nix, District 4; County Attorney Homans; County Manager Tanner; County Clerk Simpson and interested citizens of Dawson County. OPENING PRESENATION: Great Dawson County Scavenger Hunt by Chestatee Regional Library – Branch Manager Stacey Leonhardt Bring One for the Chipper – Keep Dawson County Beautiful Executive Director Cathy Brooks and Miss Autumn Callahan as “Chipper” INVOCATION: Chairman Berg PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Chairman Berg ANNOUNCEMENTS: Chairman Berg along with the entire Board welcomed newly elected District 3 Commissioner Jimmy Hamby to the Board of Commissioners. Chairman Berg announced that for the second time Dawson County has won the ACCG/Georgia Trend County of Excellence Award for the B.E.S.T. Program. He thanked County Manager Tanner and Dawson County Government Affairs Director Cathy Brooks for all their hard work on initiating this program and getting it up and running. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: ---PAGE BREAK--- Motion passed unanimously to approve the minutes of the Voting Session held on December 2, 2010. Pichon/Nix Motion passed unanimously to approve the minutes of the Special Called Meeting held on December 9, 2010. Swafford/Pichon APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA: Motion passed unanimously to approve the agenda with the deletion of L7) Appointment of District 1 Planning Commissioners by District 1 Commissioner Pichon and moving O) Public Comment before N) Executive Session. Nix/Swafford PUBLIC COMMENT: None ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS: None ZONINGS: None PUBLIC HEARINGS: None OLD BUSINESS: None NEW BUSINESS: Request from Humane Society to amend lease agreement in order to erect a modular building to house an animal surgery clinic ---PAGE BREAK--- Motion passed unanimously to approve the addendum to the Humane Society Lease Agreement as submitted so they may construct a modular building for the purposes of an animal surgery clinic. Pichon/Swafford Presentation of the Audit Services Bid Motion passed unanimously to approve Rushton & Company as the auditor for the 2010 audit with the option of renewing the contract for the four subsequent fiscal years, subject to annual review and the annual availability of an appropriation for the audit services by Dawson County. Nix/Swafford RESOLUTION: Appointment of County Legislative Coordinator to ACCG Motion passed unanimously to approve County Manager Tanner as the County Legislative Coordinator to the Association of County Commissioners of Georgia (ACCG). Pichon/Swafford RESOLUTION: Adoption of the CIE Update Motion passed unanimously to approve the Capitol Improvements Element (CIE) Annual Update Resolution. Swafford/Pichon Approval of Lease Agreement for Dawson County Fire Trucks Motion passed unanimously to table this item until the next Voting Session on Thursday, January 20, 2011. Pichon/Swafford Appointment of District 1 Planning Commissioners by District 1 Commissioner Pichon This item was removed from the agenda. Appointment of District 3 Planning Commissioners by District 3 Commissioner Hamby Motion passed unanimously to approve Vernon Smith as the Prime to the Planning Commission for District 3. Hamby/Pichon Motion passed unanimously to approve Jim King as the Alternate to the Planning Commission for District 3. Hamby/Swafford PUBLIC COMMENT: ---PAGE BREAK--- None EXECUTIVE SESSION: Motion passed unanimously to enter into Executive Session for the purposes to discuss one legal issue and two personnel issues. Swafford/Nix/Pichon/Hamby Motion passed unanimously to come out of Executive Session. Swafford/Nix/Pichon/Hamby ADJOURNMENT APPROVE: Mike Berg, Chairman ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Work Session Minutes- January 13, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS WORK SESSION MINUTES – JANUARY 13, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 4:00 p.m. L. NEW BUSINESS 1. Dawson County Drug Free workplace policy – HR Director Jay Sessions This item will be placed on the 01/20/2011 Voting Session Agenda. 2. Dawson County Alcohol & Drug testing programs – HR Director Jay Sessions This item will be placed on the 01/20/2011 Voting Session Agenda. 3. Approval of Dawson County Sheriff Department Patrol Car bid – Sheriff Carlisle This item will be placed on the 01/20/2011 Voting Session Agenda. 4. Approval of Energy Retrofit Bids for Jail – County Manager Tanner This item will be placed on the 01/20/2011 Voting Session Agenda. 5. Approval of 2011 Public Defender Contract w/ State of Georgia – Evi Turk, Public Defender’s Office This item will be placed on the 01/20/2011 Voting Session Agenda. 6. Application for Parade & Assembly: Leap for Literacy – Planning Director David McKee This item will be placed on the 01/20/2011 Voting Session Agenda. 7. RESOLUTION: Land & Water Conservation Grant and approval of contract – Park & Recreation Director Lisa Henson ---PAGE BREAK--- This item will be placed on the 01/20/2011 Voting Session Agenda. 8. RESOLUTION: Approval to Establish Official Record of the County – County Attorney Homans and County Clerk Simpson This item will be placed on the 01/20/2011 Voting Session Agenda. 9. Lease Agreement for Howard Avenue – County Manager Tanner This item will be placed on the 01/20/2011 Voting Session Agenda. 10. RESOLUTION: Sales Tax with Department of Revenue - County Manager Tanner This item will be placed on the 01/20/2011 Voting Session Agenda. 11. Discussion of Jail & Parking lot debt (SPLOST 5) - County Manager Tanner This item will be placed on the 01/20/2011 Voting Session Agenda. 12. Approval to reappointment County Attorney, County Clerk and County Manager This item will be placed on the 01/20/2011 Voting Session Agenda. 13. Board of Commissioner 2010 Expenses This item will be placed on the 01/20/2011 Voting Session Agenda. 14. Board Appointments: a. Development Authority: i. Chip Pearson ii. Charlie Tarver b. Library Board: i. Nancy Disharoon ii. TBD c. Planning Board: ---PAGE BREAK--- i. Val Dodson d. Park Board: i. Chad Cofield e. Construction Board of Appeals: i. Larry Taffer ii. Fred Kaufmann iii. Conrad Hudson iv. Jade Jones v. Bill Goode f. RC&D: i. District 3 Commissioner Jimmy Hamby ii. George Lyons g. Industrial Board: i. Peter Hill h. Joint Development Authority: i. Charlie Auvermann This item will be placed on the 01/20/2011 Voting Session Agenda. 15. Approval of lease agreement for Dawson County Fire Trucks (tabled on January 6, 2011) - County Manager Tanner This item will be placed on the 01/20/2011 Voting Session Agenda. 16. County Manager Report This item was for information only. 17. County Attorney Report This item was for information only. ---PAGE BREAK--- APPROVE: Mike Berg, Chairman ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Voting Session Minutes- January 20, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS VOTING SESSION MINUTES – JANUARY 20, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 6:00PM ROLL CALL: Those present were Chairman Berg; Commissioner Pichon, District 1; Commissioner Hamby, District 3; Commissioner Nix, District 4; County Attorney Homans; County Manager Tanner; County Clerk Simpson and interested citizens of Dawson County. District 2 Commissioner Swafford was absent. SPECIAL PRESENATION: PROCLAMATION: Recognition of Service – State Senator Chip Pearson Award Presentation to State Senator Chip Pearson Chairman Berg read a letter from Lieutenant Governor Cagle thanking State Senator Pearson for his service to the 51st District. INVOCATION: Chairman Berg PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Chairman Berg ANNOUNCEMENTS: The Board of Commissioners gave a special welcome to the newly installed State Senator Steve Gooch. Chairman Berg read a letter stating as a participant in the State of Georgia State Certified Literacy Community Program Dawson County earned a 318 points for a total of 751 points towards their goal of 1638 points needed to become a certified literate community. This number is based on the number unduplicated GEDs earned and levels completed. The Board thanked Cathy Davis, teachers and tutors for all their hard work and dedication. ---PAGE BREAK--- APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Motion passed unanimously to approve the minutes of Voting Session held on January 6, 2011. Nix/Pichon APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA: Motion passed unanimously to approve the agenda with the addition of L14i) Planning Commission appointments for District 1 and L16) VAWA Grant Application and move the public hearing regarding the Proposed Historic Preservation District Ordinance before I) Zoning. Pichon/Hamby PUBLIC COMMENT: None ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS: None PUBLIC HEARINGS: Proposed Historic Preservation District Ordinance (2nd of 2 hearings) This is the second of two hearings and the Planning Commission recommended further review of this document. Chairman Berg asked whether anyone wished to speak to the Proposed Historic Preservation District Ordinance. Copies are available. David Hughes, P O Box 753, Dawsonville reported that Lumpkin Campground has been in existence since 1830, has weathered many storms and has been through three counties: Cherokee, Lumpkin and Dawson. He reports Lumpkin Campground is a very unique place and needs special status. They are good stewards to the land, streams and surrounding area. Helen Taylor, 540 Liberty Church Road, Dawsonville said there is no question as to the historical status or uniqueness of Lumpkin Campground; unlike most facilities in Dawson County it pre-dates the civil war. Not much has changed over the years aside from power and running water. She believes that it ---PAGE BREAK--- should be on the National Registry of Historic Places. Ms. Taylor is an interested citizen and a representative of the Historical Society of Dawson County. Larry Taffer, Lumpkin Campground Road, Dawsonville, trustee of Lumpkin Campground reported the facility is used for one week a year and should have to hold to safety standard but be exempt of permitting fees. Chairman Berg asked whether anyone else wished to speak and hearing none closed the hearing. Motion passed unanimously to approve the proposed ordinance identified as draft 11/04/2010 with the following changes: • Page 4, Section IV, B1 add item d. it is at least 100 years old on the average; • Page 4, Section IV, 3 delete a) Historic (more than years old); b) Non-Historic (less than years old, yet possessing architectural character); c) Intrusion (structure less than years old which does not contribute to the character of the district); d) Vacant. D. Requirements for Adopting an Ordinance for the Designation of Historic Districts and Historic Properties: 1. Application for Designation of Historic Districts of Property: Designations may be proposed by delete: the Board of Commissioners and add property owner or: a) for historic districts – (delete: a historical society, neighborhood association or group of) the property owner may apply to the Board of Commissioners for designation; b) for historic properties – (delete: a historical society, neighborhood association or) the property owner may apply to the Board of Commissioners for designation. • Page 8, Section V, C. Demolition: Change 50 years to 100 so that it reads “A decision by the Board of Commissioners approving or denying a Certificate of Appropriateness for the demolition of buildings, structures, sites or trees judged to be 100 years old or older, or objects shall be guided by…” ---PAGE BREAK--- Pichon/Hamby Chairman Berg announced that if anyone had contributed more than $250 to the campaign for public office and wished to speak they will have to fill out a form which will be made available to them. Under normal program, ten minutes will be given to those who wish to speak in favor of or opposition to with some redirect, time permitting. Chairman Berg explained the policy and procedure for public comment on zoning issues as per the Rules of Procedure for the Dawson County Board of Commissioners. ZONINGS: ZA 10-07: Clara Samples has submitted a request to rezone 2.0 acres of TMP 076-009 from RA (Residential Agricultural) to (Residential Sub-Rural Manufactured/Moved). The property is located at 3407 Kelly Bridge Road. Planning Commission recommended denial of the rezoning request. Jerry Samples, 606 Maple Street, Dawsonville, son of the applicant, answered questions by the Board. Clara Samples was present. Mr. Samples reported his mother wants to retire and wants this land to put a mobile home on. Applicant is requesting to rezone property prior to purchase. He reports this use would fit with the surrounding properties. The Planning & Zoning Department recommended approval of request. Chris Wilson, 901 Highway 53 East, Dawsonville, reports his wife owns the property and they have no objection of rezoning. He reports the applicant would be a good asset to the community and would improve the property. Mr. Wilson stated he was taken aback that the Planning Commission denied the application. No surrounding property owner would be inconvenienced by the zoning classification. A petition of surrounding property owners signed they would have no objection to the rezoning. Linda Clopein, 3406 Kelly Bridge Road, Dawsonville is an adjacent neighbor. She reports the majority of the neighborhood is smaller home and mobile homes. She reports this property has been for sale for over a year with no interested buyers. Alan Dameron, 2316 Kelly Bridge Road, Dawsonville lives down the street from the land in question. He has no objection to the rezoning. ---PAGE BREAK--- Lori Clark McCormick, 3439 Kelly Bridge Road, Dawsonville is the adjacent property owner and objects to the rezoning request. This property lies in the middle of her (surrounding) property and to rezone would be against character of RA and the FLUP. Mrs. McCormick argued that only two mobile homes are on her side of the roads; all other dwellings are homes. She would like to purchase the property and have it back in the family once again. The owner was married to Mrs. McCormick’s uncle. Mrs. McCormick submitted a plat, a letter and a sales agreement which requires Right of First Refusal to the Board. She has not submitted an appraisal per the agreement at this time since she was waiting to hear the Board’s decision. Planning Director McKee reports the FLUP shows this property designated as Rural-Residential. This description is not tied to a zoning but characteristic of the area. Commissioner Pichon asked the Planning and Zoning Department examine at the FLUP at some point in the future and recommend changes that would fit the area. Motion passed unanimously to deny the rezoning request. Pichon/Nix PUBLIC HEARINGS: Proposed Emergency and Disaster Ordinances (2nd of 2 hearings) Planning Commission recommended approval as submitted on December 21, 2010. Chairman Berg asked whether anyone wished to speak to the Proposed Emergency and Disaster Ordinance and hearing none closed the hearing. Copies are available. Motion passed unanimously to adopt the ordinance with one change to page 2 Overcharging. Make all percentages be 15%. Pichon/Nix Proposed Mixed Use Village Ordinances (2nd of 2 hearings) Planning Commission recommended approval as submitted on December 21, 2010. Chairman Berg asked whether anyone wished to speak to the Proposed Mixed Use Village Ordinance and hearing none closed the hearing. Copies are available. ---PAGE BREAK--- Motion passed unanimously to adopt the ordinance as submitted. Pichon/Hamby OLD BUSINESS: None NEW BUSINESS: Dawson County Drug Free workplace policy Motion passed unanimously to approve the Dawson County Drug Free workplace policy as submitted. Nix/Hamby Dawson County Alcohol & Drug testing programs Motion passed unanimously to approve the Dawson County Alcohol and Drug testing programs. Nix/Pichon Approval of Dawson County Sheriff Department Patrol Car bid Motion passed unanimously to award the bid for six patrol cars with LaPrade Government Sales in the amount of $205, 200.00. Pichon/Hamby Motion passed unanimously to approve the lease agreement with BB&T at 2.19% interest for three years. Nix/Hamby Approval of Energy Retrofit Bids for Jail This approval is based on performance, what type of product they would be delivering and how much energy savings the County would have. Based on the total proposal the evaluation committee did not proffer the low bid for recommendation. Motion passed unanimously to approve the contract with Cochran Brothers Electric for competition of both Phase I and II with a total price of $380,164.00. Pichon/Hamby Approval of 2011 Public Defender Contract w/ State of Georgia Motion passed unanimously to approve the 2011 Public Defender Contract with the State of Georgia with the stipulation of a date correction. Pichon/Nix ---PAGE BREAK--- Application for Parade & Assembly: Leap for Literacy Motion passed unanimously to approve the Permit for Assembly: Leap for Literacy. Nix/Pichon RESOLUTION: Land & Water Conservation Grant and approval of contract Motion passed unanimously to approve the Resolution: Land and Water Conservation Grant and approval of the project agreement with the Department of Natural Resources. Pichon/Nix RESOLUTION: Approval to Establish Official Record of the County Motion passed unanimously to approve the Resolution: Establishing the Official Record of Dawson County. Pichon/Hamby Lease Agreement for Howard Avenue Motion passed unanimously to approve the lease agreement for the Howard Avenue office space. Nix/Pichon RESOLUTION: Sales Tax with Department of Revenue Motion passed unanimously to approve the Resolution: Sales Tax with Department of Revenue. Pichon/Hamby Discussion of Jail & Parking lot debt (SPLOST 5) Motion passed unanimously to revalidate the Resolution of 2010 allowing payment of the jail and parking lot come from SPLOST V. Nix/Pichon Approval to reappointment County Attorney, County Clerk and County Manager Motion passed unanimously to reappoint Joey Homans as the County Attorney for 2011. Pichon/Hamby Motion passed unanimously to reappoint Davida Simpson as the County Clerk for 2011. Hamby/Pichon Motion passed unanimously to amend the motion to allow payment to County Manager Tanner’s pension while he was reporting to the Drug Taskforce. Pichon/Hamby ---PAGE BREAK--- Motion passed unanimously to reappoint Kevin Tanner as the County Manager for 2011. Nix/Pichon Board of Commissioner 2010 Expenses Motion passed unanimously to Board of Commissioner 2010 Expenses as submitted. Nix/Pichon Board Appointments: Motion passed unanimously to approve the entire slate of nominees to the boards listed below. Pichon/Hamby a. Development Authority: i. Chip Pearson ii. Charlie Tarver b. Library Board: i. Nancy Disharoon ii. Judy Cahill c. Planning Board: i. Val Dodson d. Park Board: i. Chad Cofield e. Construction Board of Appeals: i. Larry Taffer ii. Fred Kaufmann iii. Conrad Hudson iv. Jade Jones v. Bill Goode f. RC&D: i. District 3 Commissioner Jimmy Hamby ii. George Lyons ---PAGE BREAK--- g. Industrial Board: i. Peter Hill h. Joint Development Authority: i. Charlie Auvermann Approval of lease agreement for Dawson County Fire Trucks (tabled on January 6, 2011) Motion passed unanimously to approve the lease agreement with Oshkosh Capital for 12 years. (This lease agreement coincides with the Dawson County Emergency Services Fire Engine and Equipment bid #13710IFB approved on November 4, 2010.) Pichon/Hamby District 1 Planning Commission appointments: Motion passed unanimously to approve Jason Hamby as the Prime and Gaye Cantrell as the alternate to the Planning Commission for District 1. Pichon/Nix Approval of the 2010 VAWA Grant Continuation Contract Motion passed unanimously to approve the 2010 VAWA Grant Continuation contract accepting $40, 202.00 with a 25% county match in the amount of $13,401.00. Nix/Pichon EXECUTIVE SESSION: Motion passed unanimously to enter into executive session for a legal issue. Pichon/Hamby/Nix Motion passed unanimously to come out of executive session. Nix/Hamby/Pichon ADJOURNMENT PUBLIC COMMENT: None ---PAGE BREAK--- APPROVE: Mike Berg, Chairman ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Work Session Minutes- January 27, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS WORK SESSION MINUTES – JANUARY 27, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 4:00 p.m. L. NEW BUSINESS 1. Adoption of 2011 Zoning Maps – Planning Director David McKee This item will be placed on the 02/03/2011 Voting Session Agenda. 2. Approval of IFB Heavy Truck Repair - Fleet Maintenance Administrator Shannon Harben and County Manager Tanner This item will be placed on the 02/03/2011 Voting Session Agenda. 3. Board Appointment: Park & Rec Board – Spencer Wright This item will be placed on the 02/03/2011 Voting Session Agenda. 4. Reappointment of Vice Chairman of the Board of Commissioners This item will be placed on the 02/03/2011 Voting Session Agenda. 5. County Manager Report This item was for information only. 6. County Attorney Report This item was for information only. ---PAGE BREAK--- APPROVE: Mike Berg, Chairman ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Voting Session Minutes- February 3, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS VOTING SESSION MINUTES – FEBRUARY 3, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 6:00PM ROLL CALL: Those present were Chairman Berg; Commissioner Pichon, District 1; Commissioner Swafford, District 2; Commissioner Nix, District 4; County Attorney Homans; County Manager Tanner; County Clerk Simpson and interested citizens of Dawson County. District 3 Commissioner Hamby was absent. OPENING PRESENATIONS: Ric Rack program update – Warren King, Chairman of the Board Senior Center program update – Margie Weaver, Director Dawson County Senior Center INVOCATION: Chairman Berg PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Chairman Berg ANNOUNCEMENTS: Chairman Berg reported he attended the ACCG Annual Legislation Conference and the Planning Georgia Associations Zoning Administrators Conference this week. Chairman Berg announced Dawson County has received $34,423.00 from ACCG as a group insurance reimbursement. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: ---PAGE BREAK--- Motion passed by majority to approve the minutes of Regular Commission Meeting held on January 20, 2011. Pichon/Nix Commissioner Swafford abstained from voting since he was absent at the January 20, 2011 Voting Session. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA: Motion passed unanimously to approve the agenda as submitted. Nix/Swafford PUBLIC COMMENT: None ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS: None ZONINGS: None PUBLIC HEARINGS: None OLD BUSINESS: None NEW BUSINESS: Approval to hold public hearings regarding 2011 Zoning Maps Motion passed unanimously to hold hearings regarding the 2011 Zoning Maps. Swafford/Pichon Dates of hearings are scheduled for March 15, 2011 at the Planning Commission meeting and March 17, 2011 at the Board of Commissioner Voting Session. Approval of IFB Heavy Truck Repair Motion passed unanimously to award the Heavy Truck Repairs bid to CC Walls Garage, Inc. and approve the contract as submitted with an option of two additional annual renewals. Swafford/Pichon ---PAGE BREAK--- Board Appointment: Spencer Wright to Park & Recreation Board Motion passed unanimously to reappoint Spencer Wright to the Park & Recreation Board as well as to reset the Park & Recreation Board appointments so they follow the Park & Recreation Ordinance dated October 2, 2003 which dictates January-December terms. Dates will fall to the closest January 1st date. Pichon/Nix Warren King, Chairman January 01, 2009 December 31, 2011 Chad Cofield January 01, 2011 (unexpired term) December 31, 2012 Heather Tierney January 01, 2009 December 31, 2013 Tony Keller January 01, 2010 December 31, 2014 Spencer Wright January 01, 2010 December 31, 2015 Appointment of Vice Chairman: Gary Pichon, District 1 Commissioner Motion passed by majority to appoint Swafford/Nix Commissioner Pichon abstained from the vote. ADJOURNMENT Motion passed unanimously to adjourn. PUBLIC COMMENT: Pepper Pettit gave a heartfelt thank you to Emergency Services for their quick response to his call for help in December when his wife had an accident. He went on to thank all involved with War Hill Park upgrades. APPROVE: Mike Berg, Chairman ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Work Session Minutes- February 10, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS WORK SESSION MINUTES – THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 4:00 p.m. L. NEW BUSINESS 1. Proclamation: Arbor Day – Dave Hinderliter This item will be placed on the 02/17/11 Voting Session Agenda. 2. Approval of Tax Assessor’s Audit Contract with Traylor – Clarence Brown, Chief Appraiser This item will be placed on the 02/17/11 Voting Session Agenda. 3. Approval of IFB Heavy Equipment Repairs – Fleet Maintenance Administrator Shannon Harben This item will be placed on the 02/17/11 Voting Session Agenda. 4. Discussion of the proposed changes to the Sign Ordinance – Planning Director David McKee This item will be placed on the 02/17/11 Voting Session Agenda. 5. County Manager Report This item was for information only. 6. County Attorney Report This item was for information only. APPROVE: Mike Berg, Chairman ---PAGE BREAK--- ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Voting Session Minutes- February 17, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS VOTING SESSION MINUTES – FEBRUARY 17, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 6:00PM ROLL CALL: Those present were Chairman Berg; Commissioner Pichon, District 1; Commissioner Swafford, District 2; Commissioner Hamby, District 3; Commissioner Nix, District 4; County Attorney Homans; County Manager Tanner; County Clerk Simpson and interested citizens of Dawson County. OPENING PRESENATION: Dave Hinderliter – Arbor Day 2011 INVOCATION: Chairman Berg PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Chairman Berg ANNOUNCEMENTS: Chairman Berg reminded citizens that the Leap for Literacy sponsored by Wee Books is this weekend at Lake Lanier. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Motion passed unanimously to approve the minutes of Voting Session held on February 3, 2011 Swafford/Nix APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA: Motion passed unanimously to approve the agenda as submitted. Nix/Pichon PUBLIC COMMENT: None ---PAGE BREAK--- ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS: None ZONINGS: None PUBLIC HEARINGS: None OLD BUSINESS: None NEW BUSINESS: Proclamation: Arbor Day Motion passed unanimously to approve the proclamation for Arbor Day. Pichon/Nix Approval of Tax Assessor’s Audit Contract with Traylor Motion passed unanimously to approve the audit contract with Traylor Business Services, Inc. for FY2011. Pichon/Nix Approval of IFB Heavy Equipment Repairs Motion passed unanimously award the Heavy Equipment Repairs bid to TW Phillips Grading, Inc. under an annual contract with an option of two additional annual renewal terms. Nix/Swafford Approval to hold public hearings regarding the proposed changes to the Sign Ordinance Motion passed unanimously to hold public hearings regarding the proposed changes to the Sign Ordinance at the Dawson County Planning Commission meeting on March 15, 2011 and at the Dawson County Board of Commissioners Voting Session on April 7, 2011. Pichon/Swafford ---PAGE BREAK--- Approval of the E911 Agreement with TDS Telecom Motion passed unanimously to approve the E-911 Agreement with TDS Telecom as submitted. Pichon/Nix Approval of the Dawson County Detention Center’s Physician Agreement Motion passed unanimously to approve the Dawson County Detention Center’s Physician Agreement with Dr. Michael Mulberry with an effective date of February 1, 2011. Swafford/Pichon ADJOURNMENT PUBLIC COMMENT: None APPROVE: Mike Berg, Chairman ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Work Session Minutes- February 24, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS WORK SESSION MINUTES – THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 4:00 p.m. L. NEW BUSINESS: 1. Presentation of Broker Services RFP – HR Director Jay Sessions This item will be placed on the 03/03/11 Voting Session Agenda. 2. Presentation of Sports Officials RFP – Park Director Lisa Henson This item will be placed on the 03/03/11 Voting Session Agenda. 3. Presentation of Early Retirement Opportunity – County Manager Tanner This item will be placed on the 03/03/11 Voting Session Agenda. 4. Presentation of Government Center FF&E Qualifying – County Manager Tanner This item will be placed on the 03/03/11 Voting Session Agenda. 5. Board Appointment: Tree Preservation Committee – Mrs. Judy Bayer This item will be placed on the 03/03/11 Voting Session Agenda. 6. County Manager Report This item was for information only. 7. County Attorney Report This item was for information only. ---PAGE BREAK--- APPROVE: Mike Berg, Chairman ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Voting Session Minutes- March 3, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS VOTING SESSION MINUTES – MARCH 3, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 6:00PM ROLL CALL: Those present were Chairman Berg; Commissioner Pichon, District 1; Commissioner Swafford, District 2; Commissioner Hamby, District 3; Commissioner Nix, District 4; County Attorney Homans; County Manager Tanner; County Clerk Simpson and interested citizens of Dawson County. OPENING PRESENATION: Ms. Terri Lynn Reed: Pre-K Transition Program INVOCATION: Chairman Berg PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Chairman Berg ANNOUNCEMENTS: None APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Motion passed unanimously to approve the minutes from the Voting Session held on February 17, 2011. Swafford/Pichon APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA: Motion passed unanimously to approve the agenda as submitted. Nix/Pichon PUBLIC COMMENT: None ---PAGE BREAK--- ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS: None ZONINGS: None PUBLIC HEARINGS: None OLD BUSINESS: None NEW BUSINESS: Approval of Broker Services RFP Motion passed unanimously to award the Broker Services RFP to Northwestern Benefits as recommended. Nix/Swafford Approval of Sports Officials RFP Motion passed unanimously to award the Sports Officials RFP to Amicalola Officials Association, Inc. Motion included approval of annual contract with the option of two additional annual renewal terms. Pichon/Swafford Resolution: Early Retirement Incentive Program Motion passed unanimously to approve the Resolution to authorize early retirement incentive program as well as the Plan Amendment #3 to Association County Commissioners of Georgia Defined Benefit Plan for Dawson County Employees: Early Retirement Incentive Program. Pichon/Nix Approval of Government Center FF&E Qualifying Motion passed unanimously to approve the Government Center FF&E Qualifying as recommended. Short List: ---PAGE BREAK--- 1. GSI Office Environments 2. CWC, LLC. 3. Ivan Allen Workspace 4. Corporate Environments 5. Dekalb Office Swafford/Nix Board Reappointment: Tree Preservation Committee- Mrs. Judy Baer Motion passed unanimously to reappoint Mrs. Judy Baer to the Tree Preservation Committee. Term will run from March 2011 to December 2014. EXECUTIVE SESSION: Motion passed unanimously to enter into executive session to discuss one legal item. Pichon/Nix/Swafford/Hamby Motion passed unanimously to come out of executive session. Hamby/Nix/Pichon/Swafford ADJOURNMENT Motion passed unanimously to adjourn. PUBLIC COMMENT: None APPROVE: Mike Berg, Chairman ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Voting Session Minutes- March 17, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS VOTING SESSION MINUTES – MARCH 17, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 6:00PM ROLL CALL: Those present were Chairman Berg; Commissioner Pichon, District 1; Commissioner Swafford, District 2; Commissioner Hamby, District 3; Commissioner Nix, District 4; County Attorney Homans; County Manager Tanner; County Clerk Simpson and interested citizens of Dawson County. OPENING PRESENATION: Lt. Colonel Richard Ivy, Lt. Eugene “Chip” Pearson and Lt. Ross Statham – Dahlonega Senior Squadron GA 447, GA Wing, US Civil Air Patrol INVOCATION: Chairman Berg PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Chairman Berg ANNOUNCEMENTS: Chairman Berg announced the Work Session scheduled for Thursday, March 24, 2011 has been cancelled. The next meeting of the Dawson County Board of Commissioners will be held on April 7, 2011. The Board of Commissioners will be holding a planning session on Thursday, March 31, 2011. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Motion passed unanimously to approve the minutes from the Voting Session held on March 3, 2011. Swafford/Pichon APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA: Motion passed unanimously to approve the agenda with the addition of L8) IGA with Hall County regarding the Public Defender’s Office and O. Executive Session. Nix/Swafford ---PAGE BREAK--- PUBLIC COMMENT: None ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS: None ZONINGS: None PUBLIC HEARINGS: 2011 Zoning Map (2nd of 2 hearings) Chairman Berg asked if anyone wished to speak on the 2011 Zoning Map and hearing none closed the hearing. The first hearing was held on Thursday, March 15, 2011 in front of the Dawson County Planning Commission. Motion passed unanimously to approve the 2011 Zoning Map as submitted. Nix/Swafford OLD BUSINESS: None NEW BUSINESS: Approval of FY2011 Juvenile Court Additional Grant Funds Motion passed unanimously to approve the FY2011 Juvenile Court Additional Grant Funds as submitted. Nix/Swafford Approval to apply for EMS Vehicle Equipment Replacement Grant Motion passed unanimously to allow staff to apply for the EMS Vehicle Equipment Replacement Grant. Swafford/Pichon Approval to apply for FY2012 DHR Unified Transportation Grant ---PAGE BREAK--- Motion passed unanimously to allow staff to apply for the FY2012 DHR Unified Transportation Grant. Nix/Pichon Approval of Tractor Mower RFP and Financing Staff submitted the following fact sheet to the Board of Commissioners for reasons not to award the project to low bidder. TRACTOR KEY POINTS: • Kubota has 13 more horse power, which is a very important factor to consider for the side arm attachment. • Kubota has more power take off horse power, this is an asset if a pull behind accessories need to be utilized. • Kubota is equipped with a 46 gallon tank; New Holland has a 33.5 a difference of 12.5 gallons, the benefit is Kubota will allow for longer cut times without fueling. • Kubota has a 95.9 inch wheel base, 3.4 inches longer than low bidder; benefit is the wheel base will allow the tractor to be more stable with the extra added weight of the side arm attachment. SIDE ARM ATTACHMENT KEY POINTS: • Kubota has longer boom reach 22’ greater. • Kubota boom reach up 19’ greater. • Kubota has a 195 degree Swivel Head, low bidder does not provide. Provides more versatility in places. • Kubota mounted to a caster type plate, provides more support of the boom arm and less wear, low bidder mounted by king pin which wears faster and allows for movement of the boom. • Kubota constructed of a double wall tube design, makes it more durable & stronger. Low bid is single wall. NEW HOLLAND EQUIPMENT HISTORY: • Dawson County currently owns a New Holland tractor. Since purchased we have gotten undesirable service. • There have been several issues since its purchase in 07/08. ---PAGE BREAK--- • Clutch replaced two times and is showing signs of needing replacing. • Dash/instrument panel failed, tractor sent to dealer, dealer replaced 3 times while at their facility. Got it back and four months later failed for the 4th time. • The tractor is currently at the dealer having the dash fixed; it is under warranty and has been. • Lift arm seals replaced, with a minimal amount of hours. • Extensive fluid leaks. Motion passed unanimously to approve the second lowest bid from Mason Tractor Company, Option 1 and financing with BB&T Banking as submitted. Pichon/Swafford Approval of House Bill 277 Project List (TLOST Road Recommendations) Motion passed unanimously to submit the project list as proffered with one amendment to allow resurfacing of a portion of Kelly Bridge Road and adjusting the list accordingly. Swafford/Pichon Approval of the Extension of the Atlanta Gas Light Line contract for New Government Center Motion passed unanimously to approve the extension of the Atlanta Gas Light Line contract for the new government center. Nix/Swafford Approval of Audio Visual IFB and vendor contract for New Government Center Motion passed unanimously to award the Audio Visual bid to TSAV in the amount of $389,954.00 and approve the vendor contract as submitted. Nix/Pichon Approval of the Intergovernmental Agreement with Hall County regarding the Public Defender’s Office Motion passed unanimously to approve the IGA with Hall County regarding the Public Defender’s Office as submitted. Nix/Pichon Executive Session: Motion passed unanimously to enter into executive session to discuss one legal issue. Swafford/Pichon/Hamby/Nix Motion passed unanimously to come out of executive session. Hamby/Nix/Pichon/Swafford ---PAGE BREAK--- ADJOURNMENT PUBLIC COMMENT: None APPROVE: Mike Berg, Chairman ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Work Session Minutes- March 24, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS WORK SESSION MINUTES – THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 4:00 p.m. Meeting cancelled. ---PAGE BREAK--- Planning Session Minutes- March 31, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS PLANNING RETREAT MINUTES – MARCH 31, 2011 AMICALOLA STATE FALLS & PARK 418 FALLS LODGE ROAD, DAWSONVILLE, GEORGIA 8:30am-5:00pm Those present were Chairman Berg; Commissioner Pichon, District 1; Commissioner Swafford, District 2; Commissioner Hamby, District 3; Commissioner Nix, District 4; County Attorney Homans; County Manager Tanner and County Clerk Simpson. Other County Department Heads and Elected and Key Officials in attendance were: Billy Thurmond, EMA Director Bob Ivey, Director of Special Projects Cathy Brooks, Government and Community Affairs Director Cindy Campbell, Chief Financial Officer David McKee, Planning Director David Headley, Public Works Director Lisa Henson, Park Director Superintendent Keith Porter, Board of Education Linda & Marty Williams, Chamber of Commerce Linda Townley, Tax Commissioner Claudia Gibson and Peggy King, Chestatee Regional Library Sheriff Billy Carlisle, Dawson County Sheriff’s Department Dr. David Westfall, Dawson County Health Department Brad Morris, Public Defender’s Office Robert Clark, Home Builders Association Judge Lisa Thurmond, Dawson County Magistrate Court Chairman Dick Bergen, Planning Commission John Stegall, Tax Assessor’s Board Charlie Auvermann, Executive Director Development Authority of Dawson County Brooke Anderson, General Manager Etowah Water & Sewer Councilman Calvin Byrd, City of Dawsonville Reggie Forrester, Courts Administrator Judge Jason Deal, Dawson County Treatment Court Chairman Berg welcomed all staff members to the morning session of the Dawson County Planning Retreat. In preparation, he asked staff to look at the next three years and discuss what they see the top of mind issues will be for their department aside from budget. ---PAGE BREAK--- Billy Thurmond, EMA Director gave a presentation discussing needs for fleet and personnel while working within the confines of the budget. He asked the Board to consider allowing him to use the $80,000.00 of remaining impact fee money to pay for a quality used ladder engine or equipment. Currently, EMS has vehicles ranging from 1979 to 2009 in the operating fleet. Other means of procurement currently being used are grants and lease-purchase options. Director Thurmond thanked the Board for working with Emergency Services with projects, goals and vision planning. Park Director Lisa Henson gave an overview of all parks currently under the Dawson County Parks & Recreation system. The parks as a whole are doing more activities and programs with less funding. She highlighted each park and what amenities are offered at each facility. Also reported were needs of each facility: operations and maintenance lighting, and expansion. More athletic programs are being offered such as USA Youth Wrestling, Track & Field, and additional Leisure and Wellness programs. All are listed on the county website at www.dawsoncounty.org. Currently, the War Hill Master Plan is being updated with 2010 Census numbers funded through donation accounts. The original War Hill Master Plan was established in 2005. As part of this plan, all asphalt surfaces will be repaved via grant funding this November and beginning of 2012. Regarding future visioning, she asked the Board to consider projects that may have a positive economic impact on our community, find ways to mitigate O&M, capitalize on opportunities to leverage financial resources beyond our general operating budget and to continue pursuits to secure the 10,000 acres in Dawson Forrest. Public Works Director David Headley stated during the Great Depression the Federal Government used transportation to stimulate the economy. Mr. Headley gave a snapshot of each department under his purview. The Road Department is currently looking at several proactive programs that would be more cost effective while still meeting the needs of the public. Facilities has renovated many county buildings saving the county approximately $150,000.00 annually. Under the new 3-1-1 phone system a citizen will be able to call in a road complaint and be told where on the priority list their project is ranked. The Board also asked this list be uploaded on the county website so citizens may access the information at their leisure. At the County Manager’s direction Public Works has brought Fleet Maintenance and the fuel center under their control. In past years, these aspects of the department have been outsourced. With Engineering on board, the department can now be more proactive with culvert, road and ROW assessments, drainage basin analysis, flood plain management and other much needed studies. The Board requested Mr. Headley look at approaching the City about performing their road work. Planning Director David McKee reported due to the economy, Planning & Development has seen a continued reduction in staff since 2008 but this has given them an opportunity to become more efficient. Currently, the department has a certified building official, certified building inspector, and two others are striving to attain certification in their field. Director McKee will be testing for the AICP later this year. The Planning & Development Department serves the public by doing building permitting and inspections, business and alcohol licensing, marshal and code enforcement, planning and zoning, 911 ---PAGE BREAK--- mapping, GIS and City of Dawsonville inspections. This is billed through finance. With the passing of SB86, a county is required to update the Comprehensive Plan once. Mr. McKee reported a majority of the Short Term Work Programs (from the CIE and Community Agenda) listed in the handout have been completed. Those projects include but not are limited to: Noise Control Ordinances, Mixed Use Village Ordinance, All Terrain Vehicle Ordinance, Short Term Rentals, Home Based Business Ordinance, 400 Corridor Guidelines, and the Sign Ordinance. DCAR GIS is an enterprise database and can be found at www.dcargis.com. Director McKee ensured the Board that his department constantly reevaluates its processes to see how they can improve on customer service and meet more citizenry’s needs. Bob Ivey, Specials Projects & Administration gave testimony regarding the Dawson County Government Center and other departments under his supervision. The target occupancy date for the new courthouse is October 8, 2011. Currently, the building is 50% completed. This project is being managed down to the penny. Mr. Ivey hopes to bring back approximately $1.8M back to the Board. County Manager Tanner stated his first priority would be to pay off the jail debt. Pictures were shown of the project in phases. Mr. Ivey reported there are over 50 different projects underway. Mr. Ivey goes on to address the HR department by saying they are now taking a three prong approach in order to become more proactive. The risk management program focuses on medical, property and liability. Insurance costs have been on the rise so reviewing the processes and procedures on how insurance plans are made up, contracted and carried out will lower the cost to the county and employee. Other proactive programs include succession planning, mentor program, and salary administration program. These programs are at no extra cost to the county. The last issue being reviewed is how the county can provide services that resolve problems and answers questions relating to the workforce before they occur. Mr. Ivey went on to discuss the Information Technology Department. IT is made up of two part time consultants and one full time employee. As a result of using consultants, the department has upgraded various software systems (spam), increased response time, decreased number of calls, and released two vehicles back to fleet. The consultants have also been able to assist in re-negotiations with vendors in order to save the county more money. CFO Cindy Campbell gave a presentation highlighting the financial outlook for Dawson County. Specifically, audit costs, revenues and debts, new debts, and FUND balance. By absorbing duties and reclassifying positions, the Finance Department has become much more efficient as evidenced by audit costs. With the change in auditors the county will save a substantial amount of money per the Request for Proposal and contract with Ruston & Company. There have been significant staff changes resulting in new hires. Recently there have been two retirements and one resignation of full time employees. Mrs. Campbell stressed that tough economic times calls for a strong Finance Department. ---PAGE BREAK--- LOST projections: 2010 was 2.30% over 2009; 2011 is projected to be flat compared to 2009; 2012 is projected to be 2% higher than 2010. Property taxes held steady in 2010 and 2011 but with a re- evaluation of agricultural and residential properties it is estimated to decrease 11-11½% which equates to approximately $1.3M. This estimation does not include exemptions. Existing debts highlighted were courthouse parking lot, jail administration building, 2007 SPLOST V Bonds (new government center), 2002 EWSA Bonds and Highway 9 south land (EWSA note. County pays interest from General Fund). New debt being taken in 2011 (all lease/purchase paid by General Fund): three fire trucks, six patrol cars and two tractor mowers totaling $1,557,806.00. Liabilities are not included in this amount. County Manager Tanner reported his goal by June 2015 will be to pay off everything aside from the 2002 EWSA Bonds, the fire trucks and Highway 9 South land. The Government Finance Officers’ Association recommends 15%-25% of General Fund Expenditures in reserve. At the end of 2009, Dawson County was at 14.8% or $3.1Million. This money is not to supplement the budget but for emergency purposes only. Finance is trying to add to Fund Balance in preparation for 2012 cuts. County Manager Tanner took time to summarize the morning discussions. He reported he has a staff that makes him proud. He says that Dawson County is rethinking how it does business and getting back to core principals. Staff has re-evaluated needs and looked internally for solutions while saving money. At this time the Board took time to discuss their top of mind issues for the next three years. They selected roads, business and people, not in any order as their priorities. Roads take more money than most other resources, how the county treats business and how businesses treat all the entities with County government. Last but not least is the issue of personnel. Dawson County has a high quality staff that has been doing a lot of work with a lot less resources. Also, the Board wants to look at how the general citizenry is treated by government. Adjourn for lunch. The Chairman on behalf of the Board of Commissioners welcomed all in attendance for the afternoon session. The Board heard from many key officials about their needs, their goals and how their vision lined up with the Board’s. Linda and Marty Williams with the Chamber of Commerce agreed with the three priorities of the Board. Mrs. Williams reminded the Board of HB277 which would allocate one cent sales tax to transportation. Mrs. Williams stated as businesses prosper the County will prosper. She thanked the Board for updating the sign ordinance this early in the year and reported current events and programs including the “Mountains on My Mind” tourism event being held this summer. Mr. Marty Williams gave the Board a ---PAGE BREAK--- detailed presentation about tourism and the importance of being a certified camera ready community. The movie industry has brought $1.4B to Georgia in 2010. Mr. Williams gave a summary of the positive impact a movie could have on our economy. It has been said that tourism is the front door to economic development. He then reported other local tourism opportunities in Dawson County. Claudia Williams and Peggy King reported the Chestatee Regional Library Board had expected and prepared for a 5% cut from the State Library budget but received a 4% cut from the State. The Dawson County contributes money to pay for seven employees and five headquarters staff members. She reported the Dawson library now has many service-based/outreach programs available to the general citizenry. The largest programs listed were: Women to Women, a support group; a quilting and knitting group that makes blankets for the needy; financial literacy classes (curriculum was developed by FDIC); Kindergarten Readiness Team; and Georgia State Park and Zoo Atlanta passes. After polling users the three things most requested were 1) the new library on GA400, 2) longer hours and 3) more books. They have since changed the hours of operation in order to accommodate citizen needs while meeting budgetary constraints. With the addition of e-books the library has not seen a decrease in traffic. Dr. David Westfall from the Dawson County Board of Health reported that prevention is a key indicator of success of the Public Health. He gave a summary of services provided in 2010. A large percentage of the population of Dawson County falls below the poverty level to where they qualify for free services. Recently, the University of Wisconsin and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation released county health findings. They found that Dawson County ranked 22 out of 156 counties surveyed for a best health outcomes perspective. Georgia ranked 36 out of 50 states. HB 214 would make Public Health an entity within a state agency. This would allow Public Health to focus on resources in Georgia. Dawson County spends more money per capita on public health while Georgia as a whole spends less. The Board requested an analysis of where Dawson County stands in the State regarding cost per capita and services. Robert “Bob” Clark, President of the Dawson County Homebuilders Association started off by thanking the Board for waiving impact fees. He then asked the Board to look at alternative methods to attract builders and buyers to Dawson County. Possibly deferring upfront costs and fees in order to build a home may draw builders to the area. As they stand now, these fees combined with interest rates will discourage new construction. Water issues were briefly discussed. Mr. Clark reported he hopes to have a good working relationship with the County. The Homebuilders would like to work with Planning & Development on a quarterly basis in order to stay abreast of codes, ordinances and updates. Mr. Dick Bergen, Chairman of Dawson County Planning Commission reported the Citizen Planning Adjunct Committee (CPAC) has worked on several ordinances and codes in 2010 while rezoning and variance requests have been down recently. The CPAC created four documents which have been approved or pending BOC approval: Concept Plan which was to simplify commercial rezoning applications; the Home Business Ordinance; Multi-Use Village ordinance which spurred a rezoning request the Board will hear on April 21, 2011; and the Sign Ordinance which the Board is currently ---PAGE BREAK--- holding public hearings. He would like the CPAC to review the GA400 Corridor Guidelines, the Hwy53 Corridor Guidelines, and within the Comprehensive Plan there is a campus style business park zoning category that does not have a zoning ordinance associated with it. He feels these guidelines can be more restrictive. Mr. Charlie Auvermann, Executive Director of the Development Authority of Dawson County gave a presentation updating the Board on new businesses and expansions of established companies as well as businesses that have closed in 2010. He gave a handout with a list of projects (see attached). Mr. Auvermann warned there will be an increased number of foreclosures in the future. He reports the housing market is now at a standstill since those that wanted to refinance have, those that wanted to buy new house with stimulus money have done so, etc. The unemployment figures for February 2011 were down to 10.3% from 11%. The issues focused on were property tax reductions, decreased financing opportunities, the lack of available industrial park space and competition within close proximity to Dawson County. Mr. Auvermann reported a “Sembler” type project is several years off from being a reality. He stressed that when companies come to Dawson County they need to be grabbed as soon as possible. Mr. John Stegall, Board of Tax Assessors stated the core duty of a tax assessor is to ensure all real and personal property is included in the tax digest and to value that property accurately and uniformly. He reported the staff is knowledgeable and stable. The Chief Appraiser will be retiring on April 15, 2011 but the office will continue to function efficiently and with high morale under new leadership. Mr. Stegall attributed some of these efficiencies to assistance of the county IT Department and to the working relationship with the Board of Commissioners and County Manager. GIS Mapping, business personal property and audit, and time staff spends on appeals and exemptions are a few areas which need improvement. The goal of the Tax Assessor’s Office is to review 1/3 of all the parcels each year so that in a three year period all parcels will be reviewed. This is a mandate from Department of Revenue. City Councilman Calvin Byrd updated the Board on City projects including the airport authority, distillery and other new ventures. He gave a brief statement regarding the motorsports park. Mr. Brooke Anderson, General Manager of Etowah Water & Sewer Authority focused on three items of concern: growth indicators, flow projections and active projects. Water customer growth and wastewater customer growth leveled off from 2009 to 2010. Mr. Anderson reported they number of water meters sold and the volume and revenues from water being billed has decreased dramatically. In a comparison of water usage, residential customer percentages have substantially higher volumes than commercial but this is the opposite when speaking about wastewater. At its current levels EWSA has a 10 year growth allowance. Listed projects were: Russell Creek Reservoir, SR 183 water system extension, Water Meter Change Out program, SR 53/Etowah River Road/Thompson Road Intersection Improvements (GDOT project), 2050 Water & Wastewater Master Plan, State Water Plan and the Shoal Creek Reservoir. Commissioner Swafford asked about tap fee comparisons with surrounding counties. ---PAGE BREAK--- Mr. Keith Porter, Dawson County School Superintendent reported the BOE has been faced with many obstacles this year to include increased class sizes, ice and snow makeup days, and employee turnover. He gave two examples of issues that feed rising costs to the school system: 45% of students are eating lunches at a free or reduced cost and the No Child Left Behind (AYP) Act have several mandates the BOE must follow. Given the property taxes decrease and Dawson County listed as one of the wealthiest counties in the State, Dawson County is not receiving funding to assist with additional burdens. The Board of Education is considering raising the millage rate. Given the surrounding areas Dawson County (school) millage is the next to lowest rate. After the BOE planning session today, the BOE will lose approximately $4M from last year. Federal money, decrease property taxes and age exemptions are included in reductions effecting the Board of Education. As the county’s largest employer with 542 employees and 3400 students Mr. Porter reported Dawson County School System has made achievements. The school system did receive accreditation again this year. Dawson County was among the 34.8% of state school systems that made AYP requirements. Mr. Porter attributed some cost savings to the fuel center at Burt Creek, a shared agreement with Dawson County Board of Commissioners as well as Dawson County Sheriff Billy Carlisle allowing the use of inmate labor where appropriate. He finished up by thanking the Board for all their contributions to Dawson County and said that any future opportunities for the BOE and BOC to work together are welcomed. Tax Commissioner Linda Townley reported her office has experienced many challenges during these tough economic times. She reported a higher than normal traffic volume at both offices. Given her office is short staffed this has been a strain on her employees. A substantial percentage of the transactions generate no revenue for Dawson County as most fees go directly to the state. Staff is doing a lot of work with fewer resources. The 400 Annex will be taking property taxes beginning June 2011. During the Tax Assessor’s presentation Ms. Townley reported she would like to see more personal audits performed. Ms. Townley reported collections for 2010 property taxes are at 95%. Collections for motor vehicles are up as well. Banks are starting to pay back taxes on properties. 2009 collections are approximately at 99%. She thanked the Board for working with her during the past year. Sheriff Billy Carlisle presented the Board with the Sheriff’s Department 2010 Annual Report. His main concerns are normal operating bills (water, gas and fuel), creating a courthouse security plan, and manning the new courthouse and annex building under the current budget and staff. In order to become more efficient and to save money the Sheriff has eliminated and consolidated staff positions, revised inmate medical staff, and will move Animal Control and E911 Mapping back under the County Manager’s purview. Additionally, costs are being reduced by keeping the majority of medical and maintenance in-house. Brad Morris, Circuit Public Defender thanked the Board for the opportunity to speak prior to budget hearings. The Dawson/Hall County case load is approximately 17% to 83%. Projected growth in the circuit recommends adding a 5th judgeship but Mr. Morris understands there is no funding at this time. ---PAGE BREAK--- If this position becomes a reality, the Public Defender’s Office will need more staff. He reports, the pay parity between the Public Defender’s Office and the District Attorney’s Office is grossly askew. The Public Defender’s staff is paid at a far less rate than the members of the District Attorney’s Office but has similar duties and responsibilities, specifically Mr. Rob McNeil. Another issue of concern is conflict cases. The Georgia Public Defender’s Standards Council along with other state agencies has been working on a resolution. Currently, three private attorneys are contracted to do this work in Dawson County. Conflict appeals will put additional strain local governments. The circuit has few at this time but needs to prepare. New concerns include whether defendants are entitled to services when being held for child support recovery. Some will stay in custody for upwards of six months. Mr. Morris was thankful for having space in the new government center while maintaining the offices at the Historical Courthouse. Chief Magistrate Judge Lisa Thurmond said her office continues to work well under the current economic climate. With the elimination of an administrative position Judge Thurmond was able to hire two clerks which enabled her office to be more efficient. Magistrate Court has changed software providers within the budgeted amount. This software allows for video conferencing saving both Magistrate Court and Dawson County Sheriff’s Department valuable time and resources. Recent mandates require Magistrate Courts to have certified interpreters if the need arises. Mrs. Thurmond will be working with County staff to release an RFQ to see if she can get a lower price. Last week a 15 minute bond hearing cost $180.00. Courts Administrator Reggie Forrester spoke about top of mind issues but reported little concerns or needs to the Board. The Northeastern Judicial Circuit does qualify for a fifth judgeship but there is no funding at this time. An alternative solution would be adding a third juvenile court judgeship. The judge would be able to sit circuit wide and hear superior court cases if needed. There is some backlog but all court offices are holding the line. This solution will not be presented in the FY2012 budget year. One issue to be mindful of is the increasing cost of capital cases. Capital cases will cost at a minimum of $200,000.00. Hall County already sets aside contingency fees for this purpose. Dawson County has avoided going to trial in recent years but has had several close calls. Cost sharing with the State begins at $150,000.00. HB265 speaks to criminal justice reform by way of amending the laws pertaining to mandatory sentencing. He believes this is an attempt to reduce the prison population and as a result will emphasize the need for treatment courts. The circuit is ready and waiting if this becomes a reality. Mr. Forrester reported on the Parental Accountability Court (PAC) supervised by Judge Oliver in Gainesville. This court focuses on child support recovery and has been successful in its efforts. The Board has seen that treatment courts offer a better citizen than incarceration. ---PAGE BREAK--- Mr. Forrester has been working with staff and Dawson County Sheriff’s Department in order to provide a smooth and comfortable transition into the new government center for all parties involved. At this time, there are no plans to utilize the third courtroom. Mr. Forrester and the Sheriff are working closely on court calendars and scheduling. He reported the new software system the Clerk of Court is using has made it easier for juror. Now, jurors can call to see whether they need to report. Mr. Forrester also thanked County Manager Tanner for working with him during the inclement weather experienced earlier in the year. Superior Court Judge Jason Deal gave a presentation on the Dawson County Treatment Court. The focus of this accountability court is Drug, DUI and First Offender (16-13-2) treatment. Their budget is supplemented by Dawson County, DATE Fund, several grants and participant fees. Dawson County is the only hybrid court in the State of Georgia. The entire process is a group effort orchestrated by the Treatment Court team. The team is comprised of members from the District Attorney’s Office, Public Defender’s Office, Dawson County Sheriff’s Department as well as several members of the Treatment Court staff. Based on their three year plan, treatment court planned to request another counselor when they reached 60 participants. Currently, there are 67 participants in the program and more on a waiting list. As a result the program will be re-evaluating the entrance criteria. Chairman Berg thanked everyone for their participation in the planning session. The Board feels hearing from all of these offices in this setting gives them a unique opportunity to better understand the needs and goals of their compatriots. Chairman Berg stated again the priorities of the Board for the next three years are roads, businesses and people. By having this focus, Dawson County Government can improve the quality of life for its citizens and employees. APPROVE: Mike Berg, Chairman ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Voting Session Minutes- April 7, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS VOTING SESSION MINUTES – APRIL 7, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 6:00PM ROLL CALL: Those present were Chairman Berg; Commissioner Pichon, District 1; Commissioner Swafford, District 2; Commissioner Hamby, District 3; Commissioner Nix, District 4; County Attorney Homans; County Manager Tanner; County Clerk Simpson and interested citizens of Dawson County. OPENING PRESENATION: None INVOCATION: Chairman Berg PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Chairman Berg ANNOUNCEMENTS: County Manager Tanner reported that Chief Lanier Swafford was appointed by House Speaker David Ralston to be on the Georgia Firefighters Standards and Training Council which oversees the training and certification of fire fighters in the state of Georgia. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Motion passed unanimously to approve the minutes from the Voting Session held on March 17, 2011. Swafford/Nix APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA: Motion passed unanimously to approve the agenda. Nix/Pichon PUBLIC COMMENT: ---PAGE BREAK--- None ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS: None ZONINGS: None PUBLIC HEARINGS: Proposed changes to the Sign Ordinance (2nd of 2 hearings) Chairman Berg reported this is the second hearing for the proposed changes to the Sign Ordinance. Copies are available. He then asked if anyone wished to be heard regarding these proposed changes. Mr. Mike Underwood on behalf of the Chamber of Commerce, 292 Highway 400, Dawsonville, GA handed out a list of recommendations to the Board. Listed recommendations highlighted are illumination of temporary signs and the intensity of illumination, address moving text or crawling messages on illuminated signs, permanent signs in commercial zoning districts, specifically request to approve staff recommendations to allow 15 feet and 20 feet sign height respectively, and to clarify sections that speak to distracting signage and to address billboards in the ordinance. Mr. Dick Bergen, Chairman of the Dawson County Planning Commission, 158 River Overlook Road, Dawsonville, GA reported the Citizen Planning Adjunct Committee orchestrated the changes in the sign ordinance. He reported the most requested variance heard by the Planning Commission is for signs. Mr. Bergen feels the amount of variances being requested means the sign ordinance as it stands now is out of date. The CPC reduced the number of temporary signs allowed in the document. Signs by their nature are distracting. There is a fine line in allowing a distraction but it cannot be dangerous to the traveling public. Signs need to get the message in the safest way possible. The CPAC recommends a 12 foot height limitation on the GA400 Corridor. A point of concern is the size of residential temporary signage. There is a need for smaller signs where density is higher. Mr. Vernon Smith, District 3 Planning Commissioner, 182 East View Drive, Dawsonville, GA reported the CPAC actually travelled the county to see the signs in our area. Most times, members of the committee were unable to see and understand the contents of the sign while driving. Personally, he feels a 15 foot height requirement would meet the needs of businesses. By measuring height from road level will allow ---PAGE BREAK--- for easier enforcement of the ordinance. The Board needs to protect GA400 by keeping it aesthetically attractive but keeping businesses and safety in mind. Mr. Lionel Graves, 224 Park Cove Road, Dawsonville, GA cautioned the Board not to measure signs from road height. He reports there are areas on GA400 that are 40’ below grade. In addition to a 20’ sign would allow for a 60’ total height limit. Mrs. Jane Graves, President of the Dawson County Homeowners Association, 224 Park Cove Road, Dawsonville, GA spoke to an email she sent the Board previously in the week. Homeowners are concerned with residential signage and the allowance of a 12 month permit and renewable. It is believe that 32sqft is excessive. She reports a 3sqft sign would be acceptable. Realtors want to have signs for longer periods of time. Mrs. Graves believes that realtors do not have to obtain permits for their signs. If this is correct, the profession should be exempt. Regarding height she feels once the Board raises the limitation businesses will only request another variance for a higher sign. Mr. Pepper Pettit, 81 Holly Hill Road, Dawsonville, GA is concerned with residential signage. One size does not fit all. Sign allowances should be zone specific. Mr. Pettit feels making this adjustment would maintain property values. After much discussion on the size of temporary signage, time for permits and renewals, sign height from grade, and other issues heard at this hearing, Chairman Berg asked Commissioners Pichon and Swafford to send proposed changes to Director McKee for distribution to the rest of the Board. The document on the website will not change. Motion passed unanimously to hold another public hearing on May 19, 2011. Nix/Pichon OLD BUSINESS: None NEW BUSINESS: Presentation & Approval of FY2012 New Freedom 5317 Grant Application Motion passed unanimously to approve the grant application for FY13 grant period (7/1/12-6/30/13) New Freedom 5317 funding project to enhance point of service/demand response medical trips for senior citizens. This will be Dawson’s second year application out of the three year grant funding period allowed by DHS for 5317 funding. Pichon/Swafford ---PAGE BREAK--- Presentation & Approval of FY2012 Transit Grant Application Motion passed unanimously to approve the FY2012 Transit Grant Application as submitted. Nix/Hamby EXECUTIVE SESSION: Motion passed unanimously to enter into executive session to discuss one legal issue with counsel. Pichon/Swafford/Hamby/Nix Motion passed unanimously to come out of executive session. Hamby/Nix/Pichon/Swafford PUBLIC COMMENT: None APPROVE: Mike Berg, Chairman ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Work Session Minutes- April 14, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS WORK SESSION MINUTES – THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 4:00 p.m. L. NEW BUSINESS 1. Presentation of Permit for Assembly: Kiwanis Club 5K/10K Races Application for Parade and Assembly – Planning Director McKee & Kiwanis Club This item will be placed on the 04/21/11 Voting Session Agenda. 2. Approval to Surplus K-9 “Rex” – Lt. Col. John Cagle, Dawson County Sheriff’s Department This item will be placed on the 04/21/11 Voting Session Agenda. 3. Approval of Station 8 Community Cookout Fundraiser – Deputy Chief Tim Satterfield This item will be placed on the 04/21/11 Voting Session Agenda. 4. Approval to hold the GA Firefighter Burn Foundation Boot Campaign – Deputy Chief Tim Satterfield This item will be placed on the 04/21/11 Voting Session Agenda. 5. Presentation of Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation Grant Application – Deputy Chief Tim Satterfield This item will be placed on the 04/21/11 Voting Session Agenda. 6. Presentation of Sawnee EMC Membership Round-Up Grant Application – Deputy Chief Tim Satterfield This item will be placed on the 04/21/11 Voting Session Agenda. ---PAGE BREAK--- 7. Presentation of Narrow Banding Bid – Chief Lanier Swafford This item will be placed on the 04/21/11 Voting Session Agenda. 8. Discussion of Training Center Charges – Chief Lanier Swafford This item will be placed on the 04/21/11 Voting Session Agenda. 9. Discussion of Inmate Medical Services Agreement with Chestatee Regional Hospital – County Manager Tanner This item will be placed on the 04/21/11 Voting Session Agenda. 10. Presentation of Resolution Adopting the Retention Schedules for Local Government Records as Established by the Georgia Secretary of State’s Office – County Attorney Homans and County Clerk Simpson This item will be placed on the 04/21/11 Voting Session Agenda. 11. Presentation of Resolution to Support Raising the Elevation Levels of Lake Lanier – Chairman Mike Berg This item will be placed on the 04/21/11 Voting Session Agenda. 12. County Manager Report This was for informational purposes only. 13. County Attorney Report This was for informational purposes only. APPROVE: Mike Berg, Chairman ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Voting Session Minutes- April 21, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS VOTING SESSION MINUTES – APRIL 21, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 6:00PM ROLL CALL: Those present were Chairman Berg; Commissioner Pichon, District 1; Commissioner Swafford, District 2; Commissioner Hamby, District 3; Commissioner Nix, District 4; County Attorney Homans; County Manager Tanner; County Clerk Simpson and interested citizens of Dawson County. OPENING PRESENATION: Stacey Leonhardt – Chestatee Regional Library AWARD PRESENTATION: Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting to CFO Cindy Campbell by County Manger Tanner INVOCATION: Chairman Berg PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Chairman Berg ANNOUNCEMENTS: Chairman Berg reported the Kiwanis Fun Run will be held on May 7, 2011. Anyone who wishes to participate needs to contact a Kiwanis member. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Motion passed unanimously to approve the minutes from the Planning Session held on March 31, 2011. Nix/Pichon Motion passed unanimously to approve the minutes from the Voting Session held on April 7, 2011. Swafford/Pichon ---PAGE BREAK--- APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA: Motion passed unanimously to approve the agenda with the addition Executive Session. Nix/Pichon PUBLIC COMMENT: None ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS: None ZONINGS: ZA 11-01 – Larry Long has submitted a request on behalf of Forestar Group to rezone 1,068 acres of TMP 090-015 from RA (Residential Agricultural) and RPC (Residential Planned Community) to Mixed Use Village. The property is located at 1624 Burt Creek Road and Highway 136. The Planning Commission recommended approval of the concept plan as submitted but only approved the rezoning application for the land south of Hwy 136 with the following seven stipulations: 1. The Master Development Plan shall incorporate Johnny Chester Road to provide access to the private property adjacent to the development. 2. In conjunction with the Master Development Plan the Developer shall develop a Traffic Improvement plan that corresponds with the traffic study dated November 2010 which shall be approved by the County Engineer and GDOT. 3. All signalized intersections shall meet Georgia Department of Transportation’s Regulations and shall be approved prior to Master Development Plan approval. 4. The developer shall increase the undisturbed buffer widths along state waters and wetlands form the existing state (25’ and 50’) to a width to be determined by the developer at the Master Development Plan stage. The Developer shall preserve native streams and the environment as much as possible. 5. The developer shall submit a Letter of Map Revision (LOMR) to FEMA studying all streams to a point where the drainage area is 100 acres or already appears as Zone A floodplain whichever is more stringent. The LOMR shall be approved prior to any development. 6. Add a 50’ undisturbed buffer along the south side of Land Lot 38 and 39 and to the west side of Land Lot 39. 7. The developer shall coordinate with the School System prior to the approval of the Master Development Plan on proposed school location and needs. ---PAGE BREAK--- Chairman Berg announced that if anyone had contributed more than $250 to the campaign for public office and wished to speak they will have to fill out a form which will be made available to them. Under normal program, ten minutes will be given to those who wish to speak in favor of or opposition to with some redirect, time permitting. Chairman Berg explained the policy and procedure for public comment on zoning issues as per the Rules of Procedure for the Dawson County Board of Commissioners. Mr. Larry Long, Forestar Group, 447 E.E. Butler Parkway, Gainesville, gave a power point presentation highlighting previous projects completed by Forestar and the concept plan for the Burt Creek Mixed Use Village. The applicant has no objects to the seven stipulations specified by the Dawson County Planning Commission. Mr. Long reported that 52% which is approximately 560 acres of this project is open space. Additionally, this project is years from being a reality and the Board will be able to review the master plan when available. Mr. Long submitted this concept plan follows the Future Land Use Plan (FLUP). Mr. Long gave testimony demonstrating they have gone to great to be good stewards of the community and to the environment. As a show of good faith, Forestar has agreed to allow Dawson County to connect the trails at Veterans Memorial Park with the trails in Burt Creek. Also mentioned was the possibility in allowing Dawson County Government access through their property to correct the intersection of Shoal Creek Road and Highway 136. For safety reasons reconstructing this intersection into a perpendicular joining as opposed to the heavily skewed intersection currently being used. GDOT and Public Works will have to approve plans at a later date. Mr. Long reports a traffic study will be performed prior to plans being submitted to GDOT and county departments. During the Planning Commission meeting a concerned citizen objected to the project for several reasons that inevitably affected his property. Mr. Long reported having met with the citizen and walked the property. He believes all concerns have been resolved. Forestar also met with Bethel Baptist Church and agreed to give a 100’ buffer from the cemetery. To summarize the project, Mr. Long estimated between 2,000 and 3,500 residents will live on the property. Given the trend in decreased family size, there will be a wide range of home options available. Amenities and the possibility of active adult will be offered. Conversations with Etowah Water and Sewer Currently will continue to understand their service capacity. Currently, 10 acres have been appropriated for an elementary school. Forestar is looking to bring more of a suburban feel to the area and have presented the idea of a two-story building that adjoins a park amenity area. As previously stated, no start date has been discussed due to the economy. Chairman Berg asked whether anyone wished to speak in favor of the application. ---PAGE BREAK--- Mr. Marty Horne, 764 Gold Creek Drive, Dawsonville on behalf of the Gold Creek HOA reported this project would be an asset to the community. Mr. Charlie Auvermann, Executive Director of the Development Authority of Dawson County, 135 Prominence Court, Ste 170, Dawsonville, spoke in favor of the application as submitted. He reports being frustrated with past developers who come into Dawson County with “cookie-cutter” development packages that do not meet the needs of the citizens. Mr. Auvermann thanked Forestar for taking the time to develop the Burt Creek Charrette based on the needs of the citizens taking into consideration the environment and the surrounding property owners. He reports it has been a pleasurable experience working with Mr. Long. Mrs. Terri Tragesser, 44 Gold Bullion Drive West, Dawsonville agreed with the previous statements. She requested the Board approve the project in its entirety and not in segments. In doing so, financing and other necessities will be easier to obtain. Mr. John Luranc, 355 Gold Bullion Drive West, Dawsonville said he was excited about the project and believes it to be a positive influence on the home values of Gold Creek. Chairman Berg asked whether anyone wished to speak in opposition of the application and hearing none closed the hearing. Commissioner Pichon reported the Board has a lot of time to change the course of this project if desired but has the opportunity to set the stage for continued growth in Dawson County. He believes that if not approved as a whole the project could be damaged. Commissioner Swafford stated he would like to see the county grow through controlled growth. He reports the company has shown they are good neighbors. Speaking as a member of Bethel Baptist Church he appreciated Forestar going out of their way to give them a larger buffer next to the cemetery. Both commissioners reported since this is only the concept plan, the Board will have the mechanisms in place to allow the citizens of Dawson County as well as the commissioners to have input and speak publically about the development at the time the Master Plan is submitted. Motion passed unanimously to approve the application as submitted with the following seven stipulations recommended by the Planning Commission: ---PAGE BREAK--- 1. The Master Development Plan shall incorporate Johnny Chester Road to provide access to the private property adjacent to the development. 2. In conjunction with the Master Development Plan the Developer shall develop a Traffic Improvement plan that corresponds with the traffic study dated November 2010 which shall be approved by the County Engineer and GDOT. 3. All signalized intersections shall meet Georgia Department of Transportation’s Regulations and shall be approved prior to Master Development Plan approval. 4. The developer shall increase the undisturbed buffer widths along state waters and wetlands form the existing state (25’ and 50’) to a width to be determined by the developer at the Master Development Plan stage. The Developer shall preserve native streams and the environment as much as possible. 5. The developer shall submit a Letter of Map Revision (LOMR) to FEMA studying all streams to a point where the drainage area is 100 acres or already appears as Zone A floodplain whichever is more stringent. The LOMR shall be approved prior to any development. 6. Add a 50’ undisturbed buffer along the south side of Land Lot 38 and 39 and to the west side of Land Lot 39. 7. The developer shall coordinate with the School System prior to the approval of the Master Development Plan on proposed school location and needs. Pichon/Nix ZA 11-02 – James Terry Cranford has submitted a request to rezone 4.46 acres of TMP 076-045 from C- CB (Commercial Community Business) to (Residential Sub-Rural Manufactured/Moved). The property is located at 2563 Kelly Bridge Road. The Planning Commission recommended approval as applied. Mr. Cranford, applicant, reported his wife previously operated a beauty salon out of their home but has since stopped therefore no longer needing the C-CB zoning classification. Chairman Berg asked whether anyone wished to speak in favor or opposition of the application and hearing none closed the hearing. FLUP shows parcel as Rural-Residential but there is an issue with lot size. To conform to the use, three acres are needed. The Board expressed concerns on the possibility of the land being subdivided even smaller at a later date. ---PAGE BREAK--- Motion passed unanimously to amend the main by adding the stipulation that the parcel cannot be subdivided. Pichon/Swafford Motion passed unanimously to approve the application with the stipulation. Nix/Pichon PUBLIC HEARINGS: None OLD BUSINESS: None NEW BUSINESS: Motion passed unanimously to approve the slated items as submitted. Pichon/Nix 1. Approval of the Parade and Assembly application: Kiwanis Club 5K/10K Races 2. Approval to Surplus K-9 "Rex" 3. Approval of Station 8 Community Cookout Fundraiser 4. Approval to hold the GA Firefighter Burn Foundation Boot Campaign 5. Approval of the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation Grant Application 6. Approval of the Sawnee EMC Membership Round-Up Grant Application 7. Approval of Narrow Banding Bid vendor and contract 8. Approval to institute Training Center Charges 9. Approval of the Inmate Medical Services Agreement with Chestatee Regional Hospital 10. Approval of the Resolution Adopting the Retention Schedules for Local Government Records as Established by the Georgia Secretary of State’s Office 11. Approval of the Resolution to Support Raising the Elevation Levels of Lake Lanier EXECUTIVE SESSION: Motion passed unanimously to enter into executive session for the purpose to discuss legal and personnel issues. Nix/Pichon/Swafford/Hamby ---PAGE BREAK--- Motion passed unanimously to come out of executive session. Nix/Swafford/Pichon/Hamby ADJOURNMENT: Motion passed unanimously to adjourn. PUBLIC COMMENT: None APPROVE: Mike Berg, Chairman ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Work Session Minutes- April 28, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS WORK SESSION MINUTES – THURSDAY, APRIL 28, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 4:00 p.m. L. NEW BUSINESS 1. Presentation by AVITA This item was for information only. 2. Request for Special Event Business License & Alcohol Permit for Mountains on My Mind Festival – Planning Director David McKee and Chamber of Commerce This item will be placed on the 05/05/11 Voting Session Agenda. 3. Presentation of the Historic District request by Lumpkin Campground – Planning Director David McKee This item will be placed on the 05/05/11 Voting Session Agenda. 4. Presentation to surplus vehicles and equipment – Fleet Administrator Shannon Harben This item will be placed on the 05/05/11 Voting Session Agenda. 5. Presentation of Blacks Mill Bridge Alternatives Analysis – County Engineer Corey Gutherie This item will be placed on the 05/05/11 Voting Session Agenda. 6. Presentation of the Roundabout Support Letter for SR 9 and CR 194/Dawson Forest Road – County Manager Tanner This item will be placed on the 05/05/11 Voting Session Agenda. ---PAGE BREAK--- 7. County Manager Report This item was for information only. 8. County Attorney Report This item was for information only. APPROVE: Mike Berg, Chairman ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Voting Session Minutes- May 5, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS VOTING SESSION MINUTES – MAY 5, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 6:00PM ROLL CALL: Those present were Chairman Berg; Commissioner Pichon, District 1; Commissioner Swafford, District 2; Commissioner Hamby, District 3; Commissioner Nix, District 4; County Attorney Homans; County Manager Tanner; County Clerk Simpson and interested citizens of Dawson County. OPENING PRESENATION: Cathy Brooks, Dawson County Government and Community Affairs Director – Junior Fire Academy INVOCATION: Chairman Berg PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Chairman Berg ANNOUNCEMENTS: Chairman Berg made the following announcements: • The traveling replica of the Vietnam Wall Memorial will be on display in Griffin/Spalding County on May 27-30, 2011. • ACCG will hold regional meetings regarding costs savings services available to counties on Friday, June 17, 2011 at the Dillard House in Rabun County, GA. Chairman Berg and District 2 Commissioner Swafford will attend. • Family Connection will be hosting the 3rd Annual Celebrity Waiter Breakfast at Longhorn Steakhouse on Friday, June 17, 2011. • Many commissioners and staff attended the ACCG Annual Meeting for training from April 29-May 2, 2011. At this conference the County received high accolades. Those being: • The County received a Counties of Excellence Award for the BEST Program. He thanked Government & Community Affairs Director Cathy Brooks for all her hard work. • Chairman Berg was sworn in as ACCG’s 2nd Vice President. ---PAGE BREAK--- • County Manager Tanner received the first annual Jerry R. Griffin Excellence in Public Service Award for his dedication and service to the citizens of Dawson County. • In recognition of his achievements, the Board of Commissioners held a reception for County Manager Tanner where a barbershop quartet performed melodies of the 1900’s and 1920’s. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Motion passed unanimously to approve the minutes from the Voting Session held on April 21, 2011 Swafford/Pichon APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA: Motion passed unanimously to approve the agenda as submitted. Pichon/Nix PUBLIC COMMENT: None ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS: None ZONINGS: None PUBLIC HEARINGS: Request for Special Event Business License for Mountains on My Mind Festival Chairman Berg asked if anyone wished to speak regarding the special event business license and hearing none closed the hearing. Motion passed unanimously to approve the Special Event Business License for Mountains on My Mind Festival. Pichon/Swafford Request to approve the Historic District request by Lumpkin Campground ---PAGE BREAK--- Chairman Berg asked if anyone wished to speak regarding the request for Historic District designation for Lumpkin Campground and hearing none closed the hearing. Motion passed unanimously to approve the request as submitted. Nix/Hamby OLD BUSINESS: None NEW BUSINESS: Request for Special Alcohol Permit for Mountains on My Mind Festival Request has been withdrawn by applicant Motion passed unanimously to table the request indefinitely. Swafford/Nix Request to surplus vehicles and equipment Motion passed unanimously to declare items listed as surplus. Pichon/Hamby Approval of Blacks Mill Bridge Alternatives Analysis Motion passed unanimously to table indefinitely. Pichon/Swafford Approval of the Roundabout Support Letter for SR 9 at CR 194/Dawson Forest Road Motion passed unanimously to send the Letter of Support for the Roundabout at SR 9 and CR 194/Dawson Forest Road. Swafford/Pichon Request to reject Calcium Chloride Bids Motion passed unanimously to reject Calcium Chloride Bids. Nix/Pichon Intergovernmental Agreement with City of Dawsonville - Municipal Elections Motion passed unanimously to approve the IGA with City of Dawsonville for Municipal Elections. Swafford/Nix ---PAGE BREAK--- ADJOURNMENT Motion passed unanimously to adjourn. PUBLIC COMMENT: None APPROVE: Mike Berg, Chairman ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Work Session Minutes- May 12, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS WORK SESSION MINUTES – THURSDAY, MAY 12, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 4:00 p.m. L. NEW BUSINESS 1. Application for Permit: Georgia Cup – Tour of Atlanta – Planning Director David McKee This item will be placed on the 05/19/11 Voting Session Agenda. 2. Presentation of the FY2011 COPS Hiring Program (CHP) Grant application – Lt. Col. John Cagle This item will be placed on the 05/19/11 Voting Session Agenda. 3. Presentation of Impact Fee Fund Usage – EMA Director Billy Thurmond This item will be placed on the 05/19/11 Voting Session Agenda. 4. Presentation of the Debris Management Plan – EMA Director Billy Thurmond This item will be placed on the 05/19/11 Voting Session Agenda. 5. Presentation of Fire Lane Ordinance – Chief Marshal Robbie Irvin This item will be placed on the 05/19/11 Voting Session Agenda. 6. County Manager Report This item was for information only. 7. County Attorney Report This item was for information only. ---PAGE BREAK--- APPROVE: Mike Berg, Chairman ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Voting Session Minutes - May 19, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS VOTING SESSION MINUTES – MAY 19, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 6:00PM ROLL CALL: Those present were Chairman Berg; Commissioner Pichon, District 1; Commissioner Swafford, District 2; Commissioner Hamby, District 3; Commissioner Nix, District 4; County Attorney Homans; County Manager Tanner; County Clerk Simpson and interested citizens of Dawson County. OPENING PRESENATION: Arts Council Update – Marcia Chelf, Executive Director & Carol Tyger, Chairman of the Board INVOCATION: Chairman Berg PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Chairman Berg ANNOUNCEMENTS: Chairman Berg reported the Vietnam Veterans invites you to attend the Memorial Day Service on Monday, May 30, 2011 at 4pm at Veterans Memorial Park. He also reminded citizens the County offices will be closed in observance of the holiday. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Motion passed unanimously to approve the minutes from the Voting Session held on May 5, 2011. Pichon/Nix APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA: Motion passed unanimously to approve the agenda with removal of L2) Approval to apply for the FY2011 COPS Hiring Program (CHP) Grant; and with the additions of the following items: L9) Agreement with Lanier Technical College regarding paving and parking area; L10) GDOT Letter regarding Carlisle ---PAGE BREAK--- Road; L11) Emergency request for transfer station trailer; and L12) Approval to hold public hearings regarding the redistricting of BOC and BOE districts. Swafford/Hamby PUBLIC COMMENT: None ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS: None ZONINGS: None PUBLIC HEARINGS: Proposed changes to the Sign Ordinance Chairman Berg reported this is the second hearing held by the Board of Commissioners. The first hearing being held on April 7, 2011. The Planning Commission held one hearing on March 15, 2011. He asked if anyone wished to speak regarding the proposed changes. Mrs. Jane Graves, President of Dawson County Homeowners Association, 224 Park Cove Road, Dawsonville, asked the Board to reconsider temporary sign size and time allowances in residential areas. Mrs. Graves also gave the Board a handout with additional information. Motion passed unanimously to direct Planning Director McKee and County Attorney Homans to make changes to the draft sign ordinance. These changes are related to sign height while below grade. These changes will be reviewed and released to the public. Pichon/Nix Motion passed unanimously to amend the main motion by limiting temporary signs to 6 months and not 12 in residential zoning districts. Swafford/Pichon OLD BUSINESS: None ---PAGE BREAK--- NEW BUSINESS: Approval of Permit for Assembly: Georgia Cup – Tour of Atlanta Motion passed unanimously to approve the Permit for Assembly: Georgia Cup – Tour of Atlanta. The applicant has agreed to pay for the security through Dawson County Sheriff’s Department. Pichon/Swafford Approval to apply for the FY2011 COPS Hiring Program (CHP) Grant Item removed from the agenda at the request of DCSO Lt. Col. Cagle. Approval to Impact Fee Fund Usage Motion passed unanimously to take no action on this item. Pichon/Hamby Approval of Debris Management Plan Motion passed unanimously to approve the Debris Management Plan as submitted. Pichon/Nix Approval to hold hearings on the Fire Lane Ordinance Motion passed unanimously to hold public hearings regarding the Fire Lane Ordinance. Those hearings will take place on June 2, 2011 and June 16, 2011. Nix/Swafford Approval for Attorney to represent Board of Equalization member in litigation Motion passed unanimously to approve the County Attorney to represent the Board of Equalization member named in litigation. Pichon/Nix Agreement with Lanier Technical College regarding paving and parking area Motion passed unanimously to approve the Agreement with Lanier Technical College regarding the paving and parking area. Pichon/Nix GDOT Letter regarding Carlisle Road Motion passed unanimously to send a letter to GDOT regarding Carlisle Road. Swafford/Hamby ---PAGE BREAK--- Emergency request for transfer station trailer Motion passed unanimously to approve the emergency request to purchase one 48’ walking floor refuse trailer from Hale Trailer, Brake and Wheel in the amount of $61,740.00. This motion includes allowing the County Manager to deviate from the Purchasing Policy in time of emergency as well as to allow staff to release an RFB for the second refuse trailer. Pichon/Hamby Approval to hold public hearings regarding the redistricting of BOC and BOE districts Motion passed unanimously to hold public hearings regarding the redistricting of BOC and BOE districts. The first hearing will be on June 2, 2011 at the regularly scheduled Voting Session and the second will be held on June 9, 2011 at a Special Called Meeting. Swafford/Pichon ADJOURNMENT Motion passed unanimously to adjourn. PUBLIC COMMENT: Glenn Ulmer, Crimson & Scarlett - Special Event Pouring Licenses for Farm Wineries APPROVE: ATTEST: Mike Berg, Chairman Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Voting Session Minutes- June 2, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS VOTING SESSION MINUTES – JUNE 2, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 6:00 P.M. ROLL CALL: Those present were Chairman Berg; Commissioner Pichon, District 1; Commissioner Swafford, District 2; Commissioner Hamby, District 3; Commissioner Nix, District 4; County Attorney Homans; County Manager Tanner; Clerk Keylon; and interested citizens of Dawson County. OPENING PRESENTATION: Nancy Stites; Executive Director of Family Connection – Celebrity Waiter Breakfast, Kindergarten Readiness, Substance Abuse Coalition/Dawson Against Substance Abuse, and “Stuff the Bus”. INNVOCATION: Chairman Berg PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Chairman Berg ANNOUNCEMENTS: Chairman Berg stated there may be an alcohol license hearing on June 9, 2011 for Dawsonville Chevron, LLC beginning at 5:00 p.m. unless a consent form is signed prior to the hearing date. Updated information will be on the website. He also wanted to bring attention to the headline in the newspaper regarding the County having $40 million in debt and encouraged citizens to read the article for a better understanding. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Motion passed unanimously to approve the minutes from the Voting Session held on May 19, 2011. Pichon/Nix APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA: ---PAGE BREAK--- Motion passed unanimously to approve the agenda. Nix/Swafford PUBLIC COMMENT: None ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS: None ZONINGS: None PUBLIC HEARINGS: Proposed changed to the Board of Commissioners and Board of Education Districts per Census 2010 Chairman Berg reported this is the first of two hearings held by the Board of Commissioners. The second hearing will be held on June 9, 2011 at 4:00 p.m. Chairman Berg stated the changes more closely assimilate population to the four different districts. After the two local hearings the State of Georgia will then review the map and may be on the agenda for the special session called on August 15, 2011. He asked if anyone wished to speak regarding the proposed changes. Hearing none, the first hearing was closed. Proposed Fire Lane Ordinance Chairman Berg reported this is the first of two hearings held by the Board of Commissioners. The second hearing will be held on June 16, 2011 at 6:00 p.m. He asked if anyone wished to speak regarding the proposed ordinance. Hearing none, the first hearing was closed. OLD BUSINESS: None NEW BUSINESS: Presentation of the Right of Way Ordinance Motion passed unanimously to approve to hold the public hearings on July 7, 2011 and July 21, 2011 regarding the Right of Way Ordinance. Pichon/Swafford ---PAGE BREAK--- Presentation of Employee Insurance Renewals Motion passed unanimously to approve option #3 with Aetna as recommended by staff for the Employee Insurance Renewal. Pichon/Swafford Board Appointments to Library Board: Reappointment of Eydie Stegall for second term (July 2011 – June 2015) Reappointment of Kay Black for second term (July 2011 – June 2015) Appointment of Donna Weaver (June 2012) Motion passed unanimously to approve all three appointments to the Library Board. Swafford/Pichon Proposed Changes to the Sign Ordinance Motion passed unanimously to approve the new Sign Ordinance according to the draft dated May, 23, 2011. Pichon/Nix EXECUTIVE SESSION: Motion passed unanimously to enter into executive session for a legal issue. Swafford/Nix/Pichon/Hamby Motion passed unanimously to come out of executive session. Swafford/Nix/Pichon/Hamby ADJORNMENT PUBLIC COMMENT: None APPROVE: Mike Berg, Chairman ATTEST: Kristie Keylon, Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Work Session Minutes - June 9, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS WORK SESSION MINUTES – THURSDAY, JUNE 9, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 4:00 p.m. L. NEW BUSINESS 1. Presentation of Property & Liability RFP – HR Director Jay Sessions This item will be placed on the 06/16/11 Voting Session Agenda. 2. Presentation of Tennis Court reconstruction IFB – Park Director Lisa Henson This item will be placed on the 06/16/11 Voting Session Agenda. 3. Board appointments: • AVITA - Joe Hirsch 7/1/11-6/30/14 • DFCS - Gene Gilleland 7/1/11-6/30/16 This item will be placed on the 06/16/11 Voting Session Agenda. 4. County Manager Report This item was for information only. 5. County Attorney Report This item was for information only. APPROVE: Mike Berg, Chairman ---PAGE BREAK--- ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Special Called Meeting Minutes - June 9, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES – THURSDAY, JUNE 9, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 4:00 p.m. J. PUBLIC HEARINGS Proposed changes to the Board of Commission and Board of Education districts based upon Census 2010 numbers (2nd of 2 hearings) Chairman Berg asked if anyone wished to speak on the proposed redistricting and hearing none closed the hearing. Motion passed unanimously to submit the plan to the state for consideration. Pichon/Swafford APPROVE: Mike Berg, Chairman ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Voting Session Minutes - June 16, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS VOTING SESSION MINUTES – JUNE 16, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 6:00 P.M. ROLL CALL: Those present were Chairman Berg; Commissioner Pichon, District 1; Commissioner Swafford, District 2; Commissioner Hamby, District 3; Commissioner Nix, District 4; County Attorney Homans; County Manager Tanner; County Clerk Simpson; and interested citizens of Dawson County. OPENING PRESENTATION: Lisa Henson, Park Director – Dawson Day: Sparks in the Park INNVOCATION: Chairman Berg PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Chairman Berg ANNOUNCEMENTS: Chairman Berg reported Family Connection invites you to the third annual Celebrity Waiter Breakfast fundraiser on Friday, June 17, 2011 from 7:30am-9:30am at Longhorns Steakhouse. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Motion passed unanimously to approve the minutes from the Voting Session held on June 2, 2011. Swafford/Nix APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA: Motion passed unanimously to approve the agenda. Nix/Hamby PUBLIC COMMENT: None ---PAGE BREAK--- ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS: None ZONINGS: None PUBLIC HEARINGS: Proposed Fire Lane and Handicap Parking Ordinance (2nd of 2 hearings) Chairman Berg reported this is the second of two hearings held by the Board of Commissioners. He asked if anyone wished to speak about the Fire Lane and Handicap Parking ordinance and hearing none closed the hearing. Motion passed unanimously to approve the ordinance as submitted with one change. The fine for violating of the Fire Lane and Handicap Parking Ordinance would be a flat rate of $100.00 each occurrence. Nix/Hamby OLD BUSINESS: None NEW BUSINESS: Approval of the Property & Liability RFP Motion passed unanimously to approve the Property & Liability Insurance RFP with ACCG as described in Option 2: $1M coverage with $20,000 deductible for an annual premium of $200,915.00. Pichon/Swafford Approval of the Tennis Court reconstruction IFB and vendor contract Motion passed unanimously to approve the low bid from Talbot Tennis in the amount of $49,900 and to approve the vendor contract as submitted. Swafford/Pichon Board Appointments: ---PAGE BREAK--- Reappointment of Joe Hirsh to the AVITA Board (July 2011 – June 2014) Reappointment of Gene Gilleland to the DFCS Board (July 2011 – June 2016) Motion passed unanimously to approve both appointments as submitted. Nix/Pichon EXECUTIVE SESSION: Motion passed unanimously to enter into executive session for a legal issue. Swafford/Pichon/Hamby/Nix. Motion passed unanimously to come out of executive session. Nix/Hamby/Pichon/Swafford ADJORNMENT PUBLIC COMMENT: None APPROVE: Mike Berg, Chairman ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Work Session Minutes - June 23, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS WORK SESSION MINUTES – THURSDAY, JUNE 23, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 4:00 p.m. L. NEW BUSINESS 1. Presentation of Dawson County Points of Distribution Plan – EMA Director Billy Thurmond This item will be placed on the 07/07/11 Voting Session Agenda. 2. Presentation of Transfer Station Refuse Trailer – Fleet Administrator Shannon Harben This item will be placed on the 07/07/11 Voting Session Agenda. 3. Presentation of Vehicle and Equipment Surplus – Fleet Administrator Shannon Harben This item will be placed on the 07/07/11 Voting Session Agenda. 4. Presentation of Collection of 911 Charge on Pre-Paid Wireless Services – County Manager Tanner This item will be placed on the 07/07/11 Voting Session Agenda. 5. Presentation of Government Center Cornerstone – County Manager Tanner This item will be placed on the 07/07/11 Voting Session Agenda. 6. Presentation of FF&E Bid for Government Center – County Manager Tanner This item will be placed on the 07/07/11 Voting Session Agenda. 7. Board appointments: • Library Board – Ragin Hause Term: 06/23/2011-06/30/2012 ---PAGE BREAK--- • Board of Elections & Registration – Glenda Ferguson, Chairman Term: 01/01/2011-12/31/2014 • Health Board – Gaye Cantrell Term: 01/01/2009-12/31/2011?? This item will be placed on the 07/07/11 Voting Session Agenda. 8. Presentation of LMIG letter to GDOT regarding War Hill Park Road – County Manager Tanner This item will be placed on the 07/07/11 Voting Session Agenda. 9. Presentation of Agreement with Board of Education regarding the use of school buses for Dawson Day: Sparks in the Park – County Attorney Homans This item will be placed on the 07/07/11 Voting Session Agenda. 10. Discussion of settlement agreement with EVSC – County Attorney Homans This item will be placed on the 07/07/11 Voting Session Agenda. 11. County Manager Report This item was for information only. 12. County Attorney Report This item was for information only. APPROVE: Mike Berg, Chairman ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Voting Session Minutes - July 7, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS VOTING SESSION MINUTES – JULY 7, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 6:00PM ROLL CALL: Those present were Vice Chairman Pichon, District 1; Commissioner Swafford, District 2; Commissioner Hamby, District 3; Commissioner Nix, District 4; County Attorney Homans; County Manager Tanner; County Clerk Simpson and interested citizens of Dawson County. Chairman Berg was absent. AWARD PRESENTATION: Chief Lanier Swafford – Employee Recognition OPENING PRESENATION: Elaine Cannon, Legal Advocate – No One Alone (NOA) Program Update INVOCATION: Vice Chairman Pichon PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Vice Chairman Pichon ANNOUNCEMENTS: Vice Chairman Pichon wished Chairman Berg well wishes on behalf of the entire Board. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Motion passed unanimously to approve the minutes from the Special Called Meeting held on June 9, 2011. Nix/Swafford Motion passed unanimously to approve the minutes from the Voting Session held on June 16, 2011. Swafford/Hamby ---PAGE BREAK--- APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA: Motion passed unanimously to approve the agenda with the stipulation that L12) Proposed settlement agreement with Etowah Valley Sporting Clays (EVSC) be moved to the front of L) New Business. Swafford/Nix PUBLIC COMMENT: None ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS: Consumption Beer & Wine License – Maxime Capital, LLC d/b/a Johnny’s New York Style Pizza & Subs Motion passed unanimously to approve to Consumption of Beer & Wine License request to Maxime Capital, LLC d/b/a Johnny’s New York Style Pizza & Subs with the following stipulations: 1) The registered agent is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 2) The deck be successfully completed. Swafford/Hamby Retail Package Beer & Wine - Somya, LLC - (formerly Chevron Quick Mart) County Attorney Homans reported this location is formerly known as Chevron Quick Mart. The previous owners transferred the business to new owners as agreed upon in the settlement agreement dated June 13, 2011. Motion passed unanimously to approve the Retail Package Beer & Wine license request to Somya, LLC. Nix/Hamby Motion unanimously amended to include the stipulation the registered agent is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Swafford/Nix ZONINGS: None PUBLIC HEARINGS: Proposed Right of Way Ordinance (1st of 2 hearings) ---PAGE BREAK--- Vice Chairman Pichon reported this is the first of two hearings regarding the proposed right of way ordinance. Copies are available. He asked if anyone wished to speak and hearing none closed the hearing. The next hearing will be held on July 21, 2011. OLD BUSINESS: None NEW BUSINESS: Proposed settlement agreement with Etowah Valley Sporting Clays (EVSC) Motion passed by majority to approve the settlement agreement that has been negotiated by each parties’ counsel and presented by the County Attorney to authorize the County Attorney to tenure dismissal with prejudice of the County’s lawsuit against Etowah Valley Sporting Clays Park, LLC and to ensure all counterclaims by Etowah Valley Sporting Clays Park, LLC are dismissed with prejudice and to authorize the County Attorney and county staff to take necessary and appropriate actions to implement and enforce the terms of the settlement agreement including the distribution of expenditures set forth within the settlement agreement. Commissioners Swafford and Hamby approved the motion. Commissioner Nix opposed the motion. Vice Chairman Pichon voted in favor of the motion. Settlement agreement attached. Approval of the Dawson County Points of Distribution Plan Motion passed unanimously to approve the Dawson County Points of Distribution Plan as submitted. Nix/Safford Approval of the transfer station refuse trailer bid Motion passed unanimously to award the transfer station refuse trailer bid to Travis Body & Trailer, Inc. in the amount of $61,130.00. Swafford/Hamby Approval to surplus vehicles and equipment Motion passed unanimously to declare submitted vehicles and equipment as surplus. Nix/Swafford Approval to collect 911 surcharge on pre-paid wireless services ---PAGE BREAK--- Motion passed unanimously to approve the resolution adopting collection of a 911 surcharge on pre- paid wireless services. Nix/Swafford Approval of the government center cornerstone Motion passed unanimously to approve Masonic Lodge 222 to lay the cornerstone for the new government center. Hamby/Nix Approval of the government center FF&E bid Motion passed unanimously to award the government center FF&E bid to DeKalb Office in the amount $1,228,556.50 and to approve the vendor contract. Swafford/Hamby Library Board Appointment – Ragin Hause Motion passed unanimously to appoint Dr. Ragin Hause to the Library Board. Dr. Hause will be filling an unexpired term. Term shall be from 06/23/2011 to 06/30/2012. Nix/Hamby Board of Elections & Registration Appointment – Glenda Ferguson, Chairman Motion passed unanimously to reappoint Mrs. Glenda Ferguson as Chairman to the Board of Elections & Registration. Term shall be retroactive beginning 01/01/2011 and will expire 12/31/2014. Hamby/Nix Health Board Appointment – Gaye Cantrell Motion passed unanimously to appoint Mrs. Gaye Cantrell to the Health Board. Term shall be from 07/01/2011 to 06/30/2013. Swafford/Nix Approval to send GDOT the LMIG letter regarding War Hill Park Road Motion passed unanimously to send the Georgia Department of Transportation the 2012 LMIG letter regarding War Hill Park Road. Swafford/Hamby Ratification of Agreement with BOE regarding the use of school buses for Dawson Day 2011: Sparks in the Park Motion passed unanimously to ratify the IGA with the Board of Education regarding the use of school buses for Dawson Day 2011: Sparks in the Park. Swafford/Hamby ---PAGE BREAK--- ADJOURNMENT Motion passed unanimously to adjourn. PUBLIC COMMENT: None APPROVE: Gary Pichon, Vice Chairman ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Work Session Minutes - July 14, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS WORK SESSION MINUTES – THURSDAY, JULY 14, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 4:00 p.m. L. NEW BUSINESS 1. Presentation of the application for Parade & Assembly: Bootlegger Super Sprint Triathlon – Mr. Lowell Starr, Applicant & Planning Director David McKee This item will be placed on the 07/21/11 Voting Session Agenda. 2. Presentation of the application to renew the CJCC K9 Grant – Lt. Col. John Cagle This item will be placed on the 07/21/11 Voting Session Agenda. 3. Presentation of the FY2012 Legacy Link Nutrition Program Continuation Grant – Grants Administrator Kaye Molden This item will be placed on the 07/21/11 Voting Session Agenda. 4. Presentation of the 2010 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) – CFO Cindy Campbell This item will be placed on the 07/21/11 Voting Session Agenda. 5. Presentation of the GDOT Nondiscrimination Agreement – County Manager Tanner This item will be placed on the 07/21/11 Voting Session Agenda. 6. Presentation of the placement of a Civil War marker – County Manager Tanner This item will be placed on the 07/21/11 Voting Session Agenda. ---PAGE BREAK--- 7. Discussion of the Shoal Creek Reservoir – District 1 Commissioner Gary Pichon This item will be placed on the 07/21/11 Voting Session Agenda. 8. County Manager Report County Manager Tanner requested the revision to the new government center FF&E contract be added to the voting session agenda. This item will be placed on the 07/21/11 Voting Session Agenda. 9. County Attorney Report County Attorney Homans requested the Board ratify the objection filed in reference to Annexation 11- 021. This item will be placed on the 07/21/11 Voting Session Agenda. APPROVE:Mike Berg, Chairman ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Voting Session Minutes - July 21, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS VOTING SESSION MINUTES – JULY 21, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 6:00PM ROLL CALL: Those present were Chairman Berg; Commissioner Pichon, District 1; Commissioner Swafford, District 2; Commissioner Hamby, District 3; Commissioner Nix, District 4; County Attorney Homans; County Manager Tanner; County Clerk Simpson and interested citizens of Dawson County. OPENING PRESENATION: Jim Bohl – Alliance of Churches & St. Vincent de Paul program updates INVOCATION: Chairman Berg PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Chairman Berg ANNOUNCEMENTS: Chairman Berg announced that the Georgia Department of Transportation has postponed plans to begin construction on Monday, July 25, 2011 on the crossover at Kilough Church Road and GA 400 until a public hearing can be held to take public comment from concerned citizens. The County will help facilitate this public hearing. He reported the Board of Commissioners has requested three things of GDOT in the past: 1) The Board voted not to have an overpass, 2) The Board contracted with Mac Tec to perform a traffic light study on Kilough Church road which was sent in and rejected by GDOT, and 3) The Board sent a letter to GDOT to reduce the speed limit from 65mph to 55mph in the area of Kilough Church Road. This option was also rejected by GDOT. He reported GA400 and Kilough was a state road and therefore controlled by the State. Chairman Berg also reported the Georgia Mountain Regional Commission will hold its meeting next Thursday, July 28, 2011 at 6pm at Riverview Middle School. Georgia Commissioner of Agriculture Gary Black will speak. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: ---PAGE BREAK--- Motion passed unanimously to approve the minutes from the Voting Session held on July 7, 2011. Pichon/Nix APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA: Motion passed unanimously to approve the agenda as submitted. Swafford/Hamby PUBLIC COMMENT: None ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS: Retail Package Beer & Wine License – Teja Enterprises, LCC d/b/a Barrettsville Food Store County Attorney Homans reported the applicant meets all requirements under the ordinance. Motion passed unanimously to approve the request for a retail package beer and wine license from Teja Enterprises, LLC d/b/a Barrettesville Food Store. Pichon/Nix ZONINGS: None PUBLIC HEARINGS: Proposed Right of Way Ordinance (2nd of 2 hearings) Chairman Berg reported this is the second hearing held by the Board of Commissioners. The first hearing being held on July 7, 2011. He asked if anyone wished to speak regarding the new ordinance. Mr. David Gee, 215 Henry Grady Highway, Dawsonville reported an issue with a commercial boat company that parks boats in the road and in the right of way. This activity disrupts the natural flow of traffic and creates heavy congestion to the point where residents cannot get to their homes. He asks the Board to ensure this ordinance will prohibit such activity. Motion passed unanimously to approve the ordinance as written. Pichon/Hamby ---PAGE BREAK--- OLD BUSINESS: None NEW BUSINESS: Approval of the application for Parade & Assembly: Bootlegger Super Sprint Triathlon Motion passed unanimously to approve the permit as submitted. The event will be held on Sunday, September 11, 2011. Pichon/Nix Approval of the application to renew the CJCC K9 Grant Motion passed unanimously to approve the application to renew the CJCC K9 Grant. Nix/Pichon Approval of the FY2012 Legacy Link Nutrition Program Continuation Grant Motion passed unanimously to approve the FY2012 Legacy Link Nutrition Program Continuation Grant as submitted. Swafford/Pichon Approval of the 2010 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) Motion passed unanimously to approve the 2010 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report. Pichon/Swafford Approval of the DGOT Nondiscrimination Agreement Motion passed unanimously to table this issue indefinitely. Pichon/Nix Approval of the placement of a Civil War marker Motion passed unanimously to approve the placement of a Civil War marker on the grounds of the historic courthouse within the fenced area. The exact location of marker placement was requested by the Historical Society. Pichon/Nix Shoal Creek Reservoir discussion follow up Motion passed unanimously to approve that the Dawson County Board of Commissioners hold public hearings on the subject of the possibility of a Shoal Creek Reservoir and about the idea of the possibility ---PAGE BREAK--- of a Grand Park and the dates suggested be September 8, 2011 and September 22, 2011 during the Regular Work Sessions; such hearings not to exceed 30 minutes in duration. Pichon/Hamby Approval of the revision to the government center FF&E contract Motion passed unanimously to approve the revisions to the government center FF&E contract with DeKalb Office Environments, Inc. in the amount of $1,238,786.47. This is an increase of $10,159.97 from the original project. The contracted amount is under budget. Swafford/Pichon Ratification of objection to Annexation 11-021 to City of Dawsonville Motion passed unanimously to ratify the objection as submitted by County Attorney Homans. Nix/Swafford Millage Rate Adoption Chairman Berg reported no hearing was needed as no changes were made to the 2011 millage rate. The Board of Education voted to raise their millage rate to 15.946 to fund the FY2012 General Operating Budget at 15.546 and .400 for school bonded indebtedness. The second public hearing was on July 21, 2011. Motion passed unanimously to adopt the Millage Rate as stated in the 2011 Tax Resolution of Dawson County by the Dawson County Board of Commissioners 2012 Budget – 2011 County Tax Levy. Commissioner Pichon read the resolution into the record by saying: BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF DAWSON COUNTY, and it is hereby ordered, that there is hereby levied on all property in Dawson County, Georgia subject to Ad Valorem taxation for the year 2011 for purposes provided by law based upon estimated valuation of $1,021,109,069.00 for the unincorporated areas and $74,410,763.00 for the incorporated areas, which includes real and personal property, motor vehicles, mobile homes and personal exemptions at a millage rate of 8.138. The millage rate of 8.138 is the same at the 2010 millage rate. The millage rate of 8.138 is hereby adopted this 21st day of July, 2011 at the regular Board meeting that began at 6:00pm. Pichon/Nix ---PAGE BREAK--- ADJOURNMENT Motion passed unanimously to adjourn. APPROVE: Mike Berg, Chairman ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Work Session Minutes - July 28, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS WORK SESSION MINUTES – THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 4:00 p.m. L. NEW BUSINESS 1. Presentation of the Growth Regulations & Weed Control – County Engineer Corey Gutherie This item will be placed on the 08/04/11 Voting Session Agenda. 2. Presentation of IGA with Etowah Water & Sewer Authority for future fire station - County Manager Tanner This item will be placed on the 08/04/11 Voting Session Agenda. 3. Presentation of Terrazzo change order for the new government center – County Manager Tanner This item will be placed on the 08/04/11 Voting Session Agenda. 4. Board Appointments: • Industrial Building Authority – Dr. Sherry Weeks • Development Authority of Dawson County – Dr. Sherry Weeks This item will be placed on the 08/04/11 Voting Session Agenda. 5. Discussion of local legislation regarding Commissioner districts – County Attorney Homans This item will be placed on the 08/04/11 Voting Session Agenda. 6. County Manager Report This item was for information only. ---PAGE BREAK--- 7. County Attorney Report This item was for information only. APPROVE: Mike Berg, Chairman ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Voting Session Minutes - August 4, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS VOTING SESSION MINUTES – AUGUST 4, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 6:00PM ROLL CALL: Those present were Chairman Berg; Commissioner Pichon, District 1; Commissioner Swafford, District 2; Commissioner Hamby, District 3; Commissioner Nix, District 4; County Attorney Homans; County Manager Tanner; County Clerk Simpson and interested citizens of Dawson County. OPENING PRESENATION: Friends of Recovery: Dawson County – Bob King, Coordinator of the Dawson County Treatment Court INVOCATION: Chairman Berg PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Chairman Berg ANNOUNCEMENTS: Chairman Berg expressed condolences on behalf of the Board of Commissioners to the loved ones of Mr. Jim Popp, the Rev. Nancy Noblin and former City Council Member Linda Grant who passed away earlier this week. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Motion passed unanimously to approve the minutes from the Voting Session held on July 21, 2011. Pichon/Swafford APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA: Motion passed unanimously to approve the agenda with the addition of item L8) Addendum to the contract with Cochran Brothers in reference to IFB #13110RFP Multi-Agency Energy Retrofit. Swafford/Nix ---PAGE BREAK--- PUBLIC COMMENT: None ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS: None ZONINGS: None PUBLIC HEARINGS: None OLD BUSINESS: None NEW BUSINESS: Approval of the pilot program regarding Growth Regulation & Weed Control Motion passed unanimously to approve the Growth Regulation & Weed Control pilot program as submitted by the Public Works Department. Nix/Pichon Approval of IGA with Etowah Water & Sewer Authority for future fire station Motion passed unanimously to approve the IGA with EWSA for a future fire station. Pichon/Nix Approval of Terrazzo change order for the new government center Motion passed unanimously to approve the Terrazzo change order for the new government center. Pichon/Swafford Board Appointments: Development Authority Board – Dr. Sherry Weeks Term: 08/04/2011-09/01/2012 (Filling unexpired terms) ---PAGE BREAK--- Motion passed unanimously to appoint Dr. Sherry Weeks to the Development Authority Board. Nix/Pichon Industrial Building Authority Board - Dr. Sherry Weeks Term: 08/04/2011-09/01/2012 (Filling unexpired terms) Motion passed unanimously to appoint Dr. Sherry Weeks to the Industrial Building Authority Board. Nix/Pichon Approval to present local legislation – Commissioner Districts Motion passed unanimously to present local legislation regarding Commission Districts. Swafford/Hamby Addendum to the contract with Cochran Brothers in reference to IFB #13110RFP Multi-Agency Energy Retrofit Motion passed unanimously to approve the addendum to the contract with Cochran Brothers as submitted. Pichon/Hamby ADJOURNMENT Motion passed unanimously to adjourn. APPROVE: Mike Berg, Chairman ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Voting Session Minutes - August 18, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS VOTING SESSION MINUTES – AUGUST 18, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 6:00PM ROLL CALL: Those present were Chairman Berg; Commissioner Pichon, District 1; Commissioner Swafford, District 2; Commissioner Hamby, District 3; Commissioner Nix, District 4; County Attorney Homans; County Manager Tanner; County Clerk Simpson and interested citizens of Dawson County. OPENING PRESENTATION: Cathy Brooks, Government and Community Affairs Director – Citizens Academy 2011 INVOCATION: Chairman Berg PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Chairman Berg ANNOUNCEMENTS: Commissioner Hamby asked for prayers for Mr. Charlie Carter as he suffered serious injury and has been in the hospital since Monday, August 15, 2011. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Motion passed unanimously to approve the minutes from the Voting Session held on August 4, 2011. Nix/Swafford APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA: Motion passed unanimously to approve the agenda with the addition of Executive Session. Pichon/Nix PUBLIC COMMENT: ---PAGE BREAK--- None ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS: None ZONINGS: None PUBLIC HEARINGS: Proposed 2012 Budget (1st of 1 hearing) Chairman Berg announced this is the only hearing since there was no increase, roll back or change to the millage rate. The millage rate was adopted on July 21, 2011. Copies of the budget are available at the Board of Commissioner’s Office, online at www.dawsoncounty.org, and at the meeting. Chairman Berg asked if anyone wished to speak on the Proposed 2012 Budget. Mr. Mike Wenson, 64 Taylor Creek Court, Dawsonville, GA commended Chairman Berg for a great budget and thanked the Board again for not increasing taxes. He understands the economy is taking a toll on everyone but thanks the Board for listening to the needs of the public. Mr. Wenson feels that employees can carry more of the health care costs themselves and relieve the county of a heavy burden. He also reports that with more advanced technology the county can cut more costs. Chairman Berg asked if anyone else wished to speak on the budget and hearing none closed the hearing. The Board will consider a resolution to adopt the proposed budget on September 1, 2011. OLD BUSINESS: None NEW BUSINESS: Approval of the 2011 Georgia DNR Hazardous Waste Trust Fund Resolution and Reimbursement Contract ---PAGE BREAK--- Motion passed unanimously to approve the 2011 Georgia DNR Hazardous Waste Trust Fund Resolution and Reimbursement Contract. Pichon/Swafford Approval of the 2012 Juvenile Court Grant continuation Motion passed unanimously to apply for the 2012 Juvenile Court Grant continuation. Nix/Swafford Approval of the Dawson County Donated Goods and Volunteer Services Plan Motion passed unanimously to approve the Dawson County Donated Goods and Volunteer Services Plan as submitted. Swafford/Hamby Approval of the GDOT Nondiscrimination Agreement and Implementation Plan Motion passed unanimously to approve the GDOT Nondiscrimination Agreement and Implementation Plan. Swafford/Nix Approval to submit the Lake Allatoona/Upper Etowah River (LAUE) Watershed Protection Project Motion passed unanimously to submit the Lake Allatoona/Upper Etowah River (LAUE) Watershed Protection Project and to transfer long term monitoring as well as annual reporting to Etowah Water & Sewer Authority. Pichon/Nix Approval to a hold public hearing for the Capital Improvement Element (CIE) Annual Update Motion passed unanimously to hold a public hearing for the Capital Improvement Element (CIE) Annual Update as presented. Swafford/Pichon Approval of the updated IGA with Etowah Water & Sewer Authority regarding a future fire station Motion passed unanimously to approve the updated Intergovernmental Agreement with Etowah Water & Sewer Authority regarding a future fire station. Nix/Pichon Approval to object to annexations 11-031, 11-033, 11-034 Motion passed unanimously to send a letter objecting to annexations 11-031, 11-033, and 11-034 submitted by the City of Dawsonville. Swafford/Pichon EXECUTIVE SESSION: ---PAGE BREAK--- Motion passed unanimously to enter into executive session to discuss one legal item. Nix/Pichon/Swafford/Hamby Motion passed unanimously to come out of executive session. Nix/Hamby/Pichon/Swafford ADJOURNMENT: Motion passed unanimously to adjourn. APPROVE:Mike Berg, Chairman ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Voting Session Minutes - September 1, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS VOTING SESSION MINUTES – SEPTEMBER 1, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 6:00PM ROLL CALL: Those present were Chairman Berg; Commissioner Pichon, District 1; Commissioner Swafford, District 2; Commissioner Hamby, District 3; Commissioner Nix, District 4; County Attorney Homans; County Manager Tanner; County Clerk Simpson and interested citizens of Dawson County. OPENING PRESENTATION: Joanna Cloud, Executive Director of the Lake Lanier Association – Program Update INVOCATION: Chairman Berg PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Chairman Berg ANNOUNCEMENTS: None APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Motion passed unanimously to approve the minutes from the Voting Session held on August 18, 2011. Nix/Swafford APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA: Motion passed unanimously to approve the agenda with the addition of item K1) Discussion of Annexation Objections. Pichon/Nix PUBLIC COMMENT: ---PAGE BREAK--- 1. Charlie Auvermann, Executive Director of the Development Authority of Dawson County – Proposed FY2012 Budget and Development Authority funding 2. Carol Tyger, Chairman of the Arts Board – Proposed FY2012 Budget and Arts Council funding ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS: None ZONINGS: None PUBLIC HEARINGS: CIE Transmittal (1st of 1 hearing) Chairman Berg reported this hearing was needed in order to transmit the Capital Improvements Element (CIE) to the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) for review. He asked if anyone wished to speak on this topic and hearing none closed the hearing. Motion passed unanimously to transmit the Capital Improvements Element to the Department of Community Affairs. Swafford/Pichon OLD BUSINESS: Discussion of Annexation Objections The consensus of the Board was that this item will be added to the next Work Session agenda. NEW BUSINESS: Approval of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Application Motion passed unanimously to approve staff to apply for the Assistance to Firefighters Grant. This includes a $30,000 match if selected to receive funds. Pichon/Nix Approval to accept and sell donated a vehicle Motion passed unanimously to approve the acceptance of the donated vehicle. Pichon/Hamby ---PAGE BREAK--- Motion passed unanimously to declare the donated vehicle as surplus and direct staff to place the money in the Fire Donation Account. Swafford/Pichon Approval of the vendor regarding the RFP #149-11 Photocopier Bids Motion passed unanimously to approve Standard Office Systems as the vendor for RFP #149-11 Photocopier Bids. Nix/Pichon Approval of the vendor and contract regarding IT Computer Bid Motion passed unanimously to award the IT Computer Bid to IKON Office Systems and to approve the contract in the amount of $273,491.95. Swafford/Pichon Discussion of Kilough Church Road intersection Chairman Berg read a letter that will be submitted to the Georgia Department of Transportation from the Dawson County Board of Commissioners. Mr. Cook, It has come to our attention GDOT intends to make the intersection at Kilough Church Road and GA400 a right in, right out. The GDOT has reported the purpose of the change is due to the requests of the Dawson County Board of Commissioners. In researching the minutes and official actions of the Board for the past six years, we have been unable to locate such an official request. This intersection is within the GDOT right-of-way and therefore falls under your jurisdiction and responsibility. As you know, there are varying opinions from the citizens that reside in the area and we encourage you to take these opinions under consideration. Given that this is a GDOT intersection and given the fact that you have traffic engineers on your staff; we would rely on the expertise of the GDOT to develop a strategy for the intersection that would best meet the needs of the citizens in the vicinity. In any event we would encourage the GDOT to alert the citizens in this area on any future plans for Kilough Church Road and GA400 before they occur. The Dawson County Board of Commissioners thanks you for your continued support and proactive approach on issues located within Dawson County. Motion passed unanimously to approve the letter as scribed. Pichon/Hamby ---PAGE BREAK--- Approval of the Budget Resolution and adoption of the 2012 Budget Chairman Berg announced the Board has already approved the millage rate of 8.138 on July 21, 2011. The Board made several changes to the proposed budget via motions. Herein are the motions made. • Motion passed unanimously to continue to fund the Dawson County Arts Council as it has been done in the past in the amount of $10,000.00. The funds would come from the amount to go to the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce. Nix/Swafford • Motion passed unanimously to remove the amount paid to the Development Authority of Dawson County by $140,000. This would eliminate the County’s funding of the Development Authority in FY2012. Swafford/Hamby • Motion passed unanimously to increase the Fire Department’s budget for lease principal and interest payments by $50,000. The County will only use $30,000 of Impact Fee money to pay the lease for the three fire trucks in the 2012 budget instead of the $80,000 that was originally proposed in the budget. There will be a $50,000 balance in Impact Fees used for purchases related to fire protection in the future instead of completely depleting this money as originally proposed. Swafford/Pichon • Motion passed unanimously to remove an additional $10,000 from the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce collections of Hotel/Motel tax. This $10,000 should be applied to the general revenues of the County. This reduces the amount to go to the Chamber from $190,000 to $180,000 for tourism. This change with the change in Commissioner Nix’s motion will bring the amount appropriated to the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce to $170,000 for the FY2012 budget. Swafford/Hamby • Motion passed unanimously to designate $130,000 to purchase Sheriff’s Office patrol vehicles. The $130,000 will come from: $90,000 removed from Development Authority, $10,000 removed from the Chamber and $30,000 from fund balance. The original budget proposed using $70,000 from fund balance in 2012 to lease/purchase patrol vehicles by financing over a three year period. Although this proposed amendment would reduce the number of vehicles to be purchased, it eliminates the need to finance by buying in 2012. Swafford/Pichon Motion passed unanimously to approve the budget with the aforementioned amendments. Pichon/Nix PUBLIC COMMENT: ---PAGE BREAK--- Mr. Leo Sheppard, 15 North Chestatee Point, Dawsonville, GA gave public comment about his concerns regarding the validity of employment of the Chief Appraiser in the Tax Assessor’s Office. Mr. Sheppard was directed to speak to County Attorney Homans. ADJOURNMENT: Motion passed unanimously to adjourn. APPROVE:Mike Berg, Chairman ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Special Called Meeting Minutes - September 8, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES – SEPTEMBER 8, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 6:00PM ROLL CALL: Those present were Chairman Berg; Commissioner Swafford, District 2; Commissioner Hamby, District 3; Commissioner Nix, District 4; County Attorney Homans; County Manager Tanner; County Clerk Simpson and interested citizens of Dawson County. District 1 Commissioner Pichon was absent. Chairman Berg explained the process of how the Board got to the point of holding public hearings regarding the proposed Shoal Creek Reservoir and Grand Park. The City of Atlanta Airport Authority owns the property but being the governing body of the county, the Board of Commissioners has a say in what happens with the property. The Board of Commissioners voted to take public comment to hear concerns about the project. All hearings are preliminary and no decisions have made by the City of Atlanta or by the Dawson County Board of Commissioners. The second hearing will be on Thursday, September 22, 2011 at 4pm. PUBLIC HEARINGS: Proposed Shoal Creek Reservoir and Grand Park (1st of 2 hearings) Chairman Berg asked if developers or businesses wished to speak regarding the proposed reservoir project. Mr. Brooke Anderson, General Manager of Etowah Water & Sewer Authority (EWSA), 1162 Hwy 53 East, Dawsonville, gave a presentation detailing Etowah’s concept of the project. He reported the American Water company, their partner, has extensive experience with reservoirs, water systems, treatment plants and other water facilities. ---PAGE BREAK--- To summarize the presentation, Mr. Anderson reported the development would encompass a 2,000 acre recreational use reservoir, while preserving the remaining 8,000 acres. The 8,000 acre park would be managed by a Park Authority consisting of two members from EWSA, three members from the Dawson County Board of Commissioners, and two members from either the Department of Natural Resources, US Fish and Wildlife, Nature Conservancy, private contributors to the park or other mutually agreed upon persons. The Park Authority would create a 50 year master plan for the use of the park which would be approved by the Board of Commissioners and the Board of Directors of EWSA exclusively. He noted that additional revenue may be obtained from private sources. The reservoir will be between 14.7 and 20.6 billion gallons of water producing an untreated 100 million gallons per day. Water sources that were identified were Shoal Creek being the main source while noting the Etowah and Amicalola rivers were marked as off-stream pumping sources. The projected cost is approximately $650Million and would be completed between six and twelve years from the start of development. Mr. Anderson closed by saying this is the largest individual project identified to offset loss from Lake Lanier and/or meet future supply deficits. The project would be built with no tax dollars and no additional debt burden for the EWSA, the County or the State. It would be the largest job creator in the State during construction. He ensures a transparent process guaranteeing all facets of the project are addressed openly and ethically. He asked the Board to consider Etowah Water and Sewer when deciding who should complete the project. (See attached presentation) Mr. Jerry Daws, President of Republic Resources, Inc., 4392 Peachtree Road Northeast, Atlanta gave a presentation to the Board of Commissioners highlighting their concepts for the Shoal Creek Reservoir and Grand Park. The preliminary concept and design creates a water storage reservoir that will utilize approximately 2,200 acres of the 10,130 acres tract of land in Dawson County owned by the City of Atlanta Airport Authority. At full capacity, the reservoir would store between 18 and 20 billion gallons of water producing 100 million gallons a day of treated water for the region. The $800Million investment for the development of the reservoir will help spur job creation and business growth for the county. The reservoir will be stabilized through Shoal Creek regular flows, surcharge pumping from Etowah River and Amicalola Creek, as well as annual rainfall. Mr. Daws reiterated that Etowah River and Shoal Creek cannot be drained since they are protected by state statute. The remaining 8,000 acres of land will be gifted to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources as a permanent conservation area to be managed in partnership by DNR and Dawson County. Mr. Daws highlighted the benefits he saw Republic Resources, Inc would give Dawson County if they were awarded the project by saying it would aid Georgia in the battle to control their water resources, insure no future commercial and/or residential development of the land, and would create a preserve with a partnership with DNR and the State. Furthermore, Dawson County would receive an estimated $7 Million advisory fee for assisting with the development of the reservoir with additional annual payments ---PAGE BREAK--- from the reservoir operations of between $8.3 Million and $10.2 Million to be received by Dawson County General Fund upon full operation of the reservoir. (See attached presentation.) Chairman Berg asked if any citizen wished to be heard on the matter. Mr. Thayer Spencer, 372 Summit Overlook Drive, Dawsonville, understands the importance of economic development and water supply but he urged the Board to be cautious with this project. He believes there will be ancillary charges in the future no matter what promises are made. Mr. Hugh Stowers Jr., 984 Stowers Road, Dawsonville, warned the Board not to give our natural resources away. He reported doing so would just to create government jobs therefore increasing the tax base. He believes a reservoir of this magnitude cannot be built on the budgets presented and does not believe what was reported in this meeting was accurate. Mr. Dave Hinderliter, 2124 War Hill Park Road, Dawsonville, as the Tree Preservation Committee Chairman, has difficulty with anyone cutting down 2,000 acres of trees for any reason. He understands the issues with the tri-state water wars but stresses the need for conservation of the trees, water, and endangered wildlife, specifically the two species of darters in the Etowah River which would be eliminated if this project moved forward. Mr. Vernon Smith, 182 East View Drive, Dawsonville, has never understood how Dawson County can sit on the largest lake in the state and have water issues. He believes the reservoir is coming and wants Dawson County to be able to weigh in and benefit from the development. He said charity begins and ends at home. Dawson County needs to be able to get water out of this reservoir. Mr. Smith knows the company that is awarded the project will make money and wants the same for Dawson County. Chairman Berg asked whether anyone else wished to speak on the subject and hearing none closed the hearing. He reminded the public the next hearing will be on Thursday, September 22, 2011. ADJOURNMENT: Motion passed unanimously to adjourn. APPROVE: Mike Berg, Chairman ---PAGE BREAK--- ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Voting Session Minutes - September 15, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS VOTING SESSION MINUTES – SEPTEMBER 15, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 6:00PM ROLL CALL: Those present were Vice Chairman Pichon, District 1; Commissioner Swafford, District 2; Commissioner Hamby, District 3; Commissioner Nix, District 4; County Attorney Homans; County Manager Tanner; County Clerk Simpson and interested citizens of Dawson County. Chairman Berg was absent. OPENING PRESENTATION: None INVOCATION: Vice Chairman Pichon PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Vice Chairman Pichon ANNOUNCEMENTS: None APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Motion passed unanimously to approve the minutes from the Voting Session held on September 1, 2011. Swafford/Hamby APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA: Motion passed unanimously to approve the agenda as submitted. Nix/Swafford PUBLIC COMMENT: None ---PAGE BREAK--- ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS: Special Event Alcohol Permit – United Way of County, Inc. County Attorney Homans reported they meet the requirements of the ordinance. Since the location was not in a commercial zone, the Board of Commissioners must hear the application. Jay Sessions, Past Chairman of United Way of Dawson County answered questions from the Board. Motion passed unanimously to approve the application as submitted. Nix/Hamby ZONINGS: ZA 11-04 - Dawson County has submitted a request to rezone 122.31 acres of TMPs 031-027, 031-027- 001 & 031-027-002 from C-HB (Highway Business Commercial) to RA (Residential Agricultural). The properties are located approximately .25 miles north of the Highway 136/Highway 183 intersection. Planning Commission recommended approval of the application as submitted. Planning Director David McKee explained this was a staff initiated rezoning application. He answered questions by the Board. Vice Chairman Pichon asked if anyone wished to speak in favor or opposition of the proposed rezoning and hearing none closed the hearing. Motion passed unanimously to approve the application to rezone the parcels to Residential Agricultural as requested. Swafford/Nix ZA 11-05 – Dawson County has submitted a request on behalf of the State of Georgia to rezone 2884.36 acres of TMPs 010-001, 011-001, 011-001-001, & 008-008 from RPC (Residential Planned Community) to RA (Residential Agricultural). The properties are located off Highway 52 West and Highway 136. Planning Commission recommended approval of the application as submitted. This rezoning request, like the previous application, is a staff initiated rezoning so to align the property with the surrounding area. ---PAGE BREAK--- Vice Chairman Pichon asked if anyone wished to speak in favor or opposition of the proposed rezoning and hearing none closed the hearing. Motion passed unanimously to approve the application to rezone the parcels to Residential Agricultural as requested. Swafford/Hamby PUBLIC HEARINGS: None OLD BUSINESS: None NEW BUSINESS: PROCLAMATION: Clean Water Month Proclamation Vice Chairman Pichon read the proclamation into the record. Motion passed unanimously to approve the proclamation proclaiming October as Clean Water Month. Nix/Hamby Approval of the Ninth District Opportunity fundraiser Motion passed unanimously to approve the fundraiser proposed by the Ninth District Opportunity. Nix/Swafford Approval of RFP #153-11 Specialty Filing and Storage for the new government center Motion passed unanimously to award the Specialty Filing and Storage RFP #153-11 to The Walter Hopkins Company in the amount of $403,870.69. The Board awarded the bid to the second lowest bidder based on Walter Hopkins Company providing the safest product providing the best possible protection to the public. They were the second lowest bid. Swafford/Hamby Ratification of the Weed Control pilot program cancellation Motion passed unanimously to direct staff to cease all testing and application of the weed control pilot program as previously approved. Swafford/Nix ---PAGE BREAK--- ADJOURNMENT: Motion passed unanimously to adjourn. PUBLIC COMMENT: Ms. Rebecca Carter, 1700 Lawrence Road, Dawsonville proffered comments regarding the proposed Calhoun Reservoir which may be located in north Dawson County and south Lumpkin County. APPROVE:Gary Pichon, Vice Chairman ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Special Called Meeting Minutes - September 22, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS SEPCIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES – SEPTEMBER 22, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 4:00PM ROLL CALL: Those present were Chairman Berg; Commissioner Pichon, District 1; Commissioner Swafford, District 2; Commissioner Hamby, District 3; Commissioner Nix, District 4; County Attorney Homans; County Manager Tanner; County Clerk Simpson and interested citizens of Dawson County. Chairman Berg reported this is the second hearing in an attempt to take public comment on the proposed Shoal Creek Reservoir and Grand Park concept. No decisions have been made and these hearings are pre-emptive. The land is owned by the City of Atlanta Airport Authority and not by Dawson County. In a recent conversation, Mayor of Atlanta, Kasim Reed said that he had talked to Governor Deal and had agreed not to make plans for Dawson Forest until the water wars were settled. To give background information, Chairman Berg explained that in 2006, he started speaking to various conservation groups but no one had money at the time for a project of this magnitude. Once elected, Commissioner Pichon started speaking to groups about a Grand Park concept and connecting the Appalachian Trail in Dawson County. All conversations have been general up until the last few years. Only recently, have discussions of a reservoir have come to light. The Board of Commissioners as a whole wanted to give the citizens a voice as early in the process as possible. That being said, on July 21, 2011, the Board voted to hold two public hearings in order to give citizens a venue in which to express their concerns and comments regarding Dawson Forest. PUBLIC HEARINGS: Chairman Berg asked if anyone wished to speak regarding the proposed Shoal Creek Reservoir and Grand Park. He reported any citizens wishing to speak need to give their name and address to be included in the official record. Ms. Laney Cagle, 178 Amicalola Forest Drive, Dawsonville, said she was surprised not see more people speak at the last hearing when given the opportunity. Regarding the Grand Park, she feels Dawson ---PAGE BREAK--- County has several nice parks and does not see a great need for any more. She understands that our neighbors need water but it should not be at the expense of Dawson Forest. Since the City of Atlanta owns the property, it would only make sense they would be identified as the ones receiving water from the reservoir and not citizens of Dawson County. Other concerns listed were the low river levels in the areas the proposed pumping stations were to be located, the nuclear residue in Dawson Forest buried by Lockheed Martin, the extinction of the Etowah Darters, and clear cutting over 2,000 acres of forestry. Mr. Will Wingate, Vice President of Advocacy and Land Conservation of the Georgia Conservancy, 817 West Peachtree Street, Atlanta, explained his position on the project. The Georgia Conservancy is a statewide organization, founded in 1967, composed of over 3,000 members, protect the natural resources of Georgia and to create a state where environment thrives. The Georgia Conservancy would support any plan that would permanently preserving Dawson Forest. Recently, they have had meetings with Mayor Reed and other elected officials across the state to discuss the issue facing Dawson Forest. They would be interested in partnering with Dawson County if the Board would like to create a Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) or some other idea in order to permanently preserve the land without adding a reservoir. The land is simply too important a tract intact not to be preserved as it is. He understands the water concerns of the region and congratulated EWSA for their pre-planning. Two days ago, the Georgia Conservancy posted a petition on their website begging for Dawson Forest to be preserved (see minutes). At this time, there are over 700 names listed with 40% of those names are within 30 miles of Dawson County. This is a critical piece of property and is a state-wide issue. Mr. Joe Cook, Coosa River Basin Initiative (CRBI), 408 Broad Street, Rome, works to protect a 5,000sqmi area in north Georgia including rivers and streams. He thanked the Board for holding hearings to listen to concerns of constituents. He spoke to issues that would affect Dawson County residents that people may not have considered. It is likely that Dawson County residents will not be served by this reservoir. He reported this is a water supply reservoir for metro-Atlanta and not a recreational reservoir. As it is currently planned, with water being piped out of Dawson County and into metro-Atlanta, it is against state law. The Metropolitan Water Planning District (MWPD) created the part of the law making it illegal to transfer water from outside the district into the district. The only way to get around the law is for Dawson County to join the MWPD which would have wide-reaching effects. If this occurred, warm water stream buffers that currently sit at 25 feet would increase to 75 feet. He reports there are many other regulations that Dawson County would have to implement in order to be a part of the MWPD. Mr. Cook went on to report that the law stipulates if a water supply reservoir is built on Shoal Creek, all streams above the reservoir that feed it must have a 150 foot stream buffer. The Shoal Creek watershed makes up approximately 17% of the land area in Dawson County. Another issue, as it is currently planned, is that the reservoir does not lie entirely within the Wildlife Management Area. As much as 500 additional acres would be to be purchased from citizens of Dawson County. It has also been suggested the reservoir will be a draw for visitors and can be used as a recreational water area similar to the reservoir in Lumpkin County. He explained this facility will be managed as a water supply reservoir prohibiting motorized vessels. He does not think the reservoir will be no more a recreational amenity once built than it is now since only electric motors will be allowed. His concern is during the dry summer, the levels ---PAGE BREAK--- will drop. He cited Bear Creek Reservoir in Clark and Oconee Counties as an example. Finally, many in the CRBI are very concerned because this project would remove 100 million gallons per day of water from the Etowah and pump it to metro-Atlanta. It would be five times the amount that is currently removed from the Etowah making it the single largest inter-basin transfer in the State. Mr. Cook believes the Board will start receiving, if not already, letters from governments of communities that would be affected by this development. He reminded the Board that what they decide here is not done so in a vacuum but affects everyone He summarized by saying the conservation community supports any measure to preserve the 10,000 acres without sacrificing Shoal Creek. Paulding County had a similar project which they were able to protect locally and through outside organizations. Mr. Brooke Anderson, General Manager of Etowah Water & Sewer Authority (EWSA), 1162 Hwy 53 East, Dawsonville, gave a presentation highlighting the benefits a project like this would bring to the citizens of Dawson County. EWSA is proposing a 2,000 acre reservoir managed by a Park Authority made up of a Board of Directors. This Authority would be comprised of members from the Board of Directors of EWSA, the Board of Commissioners and two other members from outside agencies. Mr. Anderson goes on to say another agency vying for the project suggested that the property could be obtained and then turned over to the State of Georgia to be maintained. As it stands now, the State is cutting back in every way possible. There is no real money for the operation or maintenance of recreational parks. He reminded the Board, that Amicalola State Park was facing closure a couple of years ago. If the State did agree to take over the Grand Park, there is no guarantee it would not be closed at a future time when budgets were cut even further. Revenues and yields from the reservoir are still conceptual at this time. He reports this is the largest, single project identified by the Governor’s taskforce to offset water supply, losses from Lake Lanier and Lake Allatoona, depending on the ruling. No tax dollars would be utilized and no additional debt would be incurred by the County or its citizens, EWSA, the State. The remaining 8,000 acres would be a passive park available to all enthusiasts. Mr. Anderson reported Dawson County’s unemployment rate is at 9.4%. This project would not create jobs overnight but workers would be needed to complete the project. He reflected on the concerns expressed by citizens and said all issues would be to be vetted prior to the development going forward. Mr. Anderson does not understand how cost figures and advisory fees were promised at the last presentation given that yields from the reservoir are still an unknown at this time. He beseeched the Board to choose a partner in which they know, trust and work with every day. Mr. Mike Cuevas, 178 Blacks Mill Valley, Dawsonville, reported this land is a draw for visitors as well as natives to the area. He believes this project is a prelude to a sewer treatment plant. Other concerns expressed were regarding the wildlife that would be displaced in the event this project moves forward. Mr. Cuevas wants to the Board to allow citizens to vote on the issue instead of making the decision for the County. ---PAGE BREAK--- Mr. Robert Randall, 1875 Highway 9 North, Dawsonville, believes the specified area would best serve the citizens of Dawson County if left in its natural state. Mr. Randall spoke as a citizen of Dawson County as well as the Coosa-Basin Director for the Georgia Lakes Society. He reports many conservation groups do not support this proposal. A position statement was submitted (see minutes). He does however support a grand park in the area but without the devastation to the river’s ecosystem a reservoir would cause. The Russell Creek Reservoir will supply our county’s water needs for many years. This type of smaller reservoir would best serve the citizens of Dawson County. Mr. Randall expressed concern over the Etowah and Cherokee Darters. Also stated was the negative impact of withdrawing 100 million gallons of water per day on our area as well as the neighbors. Mr. Richard Grove, 5943 Wills Orchard Road, Cumming, reported he is one of the Etowah’s most frequent visitors. He reports that never before has a public or private partnership built such a large, expensive reservoir. Mr. Grove asked if a smaller reservoir meet the needs of the customers as opposed to the proposed reservoir. He feels other options need to be weighed so to preserve the area. Mr. Lionel Graves, 224 Park Cove Road, Dawsonville, said that the assumed portion of the discussion is that all the 10,000 acres are equal and that is not the case. The most scenic and tranquil locations which are frequented the most are or near the creeks and rivers. These are the parts of the park which will be lost. He feels that one day there will be no question to the need of a reservoir this large but right now, the area should remain untouched. The profit of private companies should not come at the cost of natural resources. Mr. Glenn Page, General Manager of Cobb County-Marietta Water Authority (CCMWA), 1600 Barnes Mill Road, Marietta, spoke on behalf of his organization as well as the City of Canton. He reports they are not opposed to the project however; they want to make sure the planning takes into the consideration the effect of the flow of the Etowah River past other projects The project will need to be designed and operated so that it does not adversely affect uses such as Hickory Log Creek Reservoir which is currently in operation. The CCMWA owns land on Sharp Mountain Creek near Ball Ground for another potential reservoir site. Acquisition of this land began in the mid- 1990s. There is also a possibility that the Dawson Forest project could negatively affect the viability of the Sharp Mountain Creek project as well. Mr. Page reported the CCMWA would be happy to work with the County on the technical analysis and asked for an opportunity to stay abreast of the issues and updates of the Shoal Creek Reservoir project. Mr. Weldon Sheriff, 228 Weldon Sheriff Road, Dawsonville, disagreed with the Board’s decision to hold public hearings at 4:00pm. He feels all public hearings should be later so that the working public has an opportunity to attend if they so choose. He feels Dawson County already has a grand park and is not in need of another one. Other concerns addressed were nuclear waste from the Lockheed Martin plant and wildlife. ---PAGE BREAK--- Mr. Henry Johnson, 443 Clayton Chester Road, Dawsonville, says that Dawson Forest is a jewel that should remain untouched and undeveloped. This is the only stretch of river that is not developed. Mr. Johnson worked for DNR for many years watching revenue dictate a lot of the changes to the area. He does not want to see the same done to Shoal Creek and the surrounding area. Ms. Parrie Pinyan, 675 Pinyan Lane, Canton, is a constant paddler and frequent visitor of Dawson Forest. She feels the commissioners have made good decisions when it comes to development up until this point. Dawson County will need the water in the future and should wait until that time to move forward with the project and let Atlanta find another source for their water. Ms. Pinyan also believes most of the jobs that would be created by this project will be from out of town and brought in by the developers and would not be local workers. Mr. Hugh Stowers Jr., 800 Stowers Road, Dawsonville reported he believes these public hearings are a waste of tax payer dollars. He feels the Board of Commissioners is trying to give away our natural resources. Mr. Stowers asked about the status of Russell Creek Reservoir. He expressed concerned over both reservoirs as well as the closed Lockheed-Martin facility and increased cancer rates. He feels he proposed project is solely about money. Mr. Clint Bearden, 9304 Highway 136 West, Dawsonville, is not opposed to the reservoir but shared most of the concerns expressed at the public hearings. He commented on the reality versus practicality. He asked what role does the County have in a project of this nature. The reality of the situation is that there is still litigation pending on the Tri-State Water Wars. No matter the decision made in that case, there is a need for water long term for Cobb, Fulton, and Gwinnett Counties as well as the City of Atlanta. These places continue to grown and the need for water rises. The concern of many is that Dawson County will be selling water to another city or county. The Governor has already said a part of his agenda is to look at the need for reservoirs, and the construction of reservoirs to meet future water needs. Most will agree there is a need for water but it should not come from Dawson County. This area is pristine and should not be touched. The fact of the matter is a substantial portion of this property is owned not by Dawson County but by the City of Atlanta Airport Authority. Previous reports that were completed show that Dawson County was being looked at for an airport extension. Thankfully, Dawson Forest was shown not to be a good fit with that plan. With that said, the City of Atlanta will probably not want to hold onto the property for much longer. Mr. Bearden commended the conservation groups that are interested in preserving the land for future generations. He spoke to the SPLOST that was mentioned. He does not see how willing any commission would be to take a tax increase to the public given the economic climate. Mr. Bearden agrees with the proposed project saying that it will remain as a similar use as it is now. If the project moves forward, the county needs to remember they are not in the water business and therefore should leave this decision to Etowah Water & Sewer Authority. They are accountable to local citizens and have worked with Dawson County on a day-to-day basis. He does ---PAGE BREAK--- believe the County can work with EWSA and conservation groups to come up with a master plan that would benefit everyone involved to find the most advantageous result in a situation like this. Mr. Jim King, 416 Overlook Circle, Dawsonville, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Etowah Water & Sewer Authority (EWSA), spoke about his concerns regarding the proposed Shoal Creek Reservoir. He said that EWSA is charged with providing water to Dawson and parts of Lumpkin and counties for today and in the future. He said humans tend to procrastinate and it is the job of EWSA to plan ahead to prevent a water crisis. This reservoir is needed and the City of Atlanta looked at building it in the mid-1990s. He reminded the citizens that Dawson County does not own the Dawson Forest property. Mr. King agreed with many saying it is a jewel that should be preserved as much as possible. He referenced another piece of property previously owned by the City of Atlanta. The property was deemed not a viable cite for an airport and was then sold to developers. He went on to say they have the right to clear cut the property in order to pay their taxes, like so many other Dawson County residents have done, if they so desired. There are no assurances as long as the City of Atlanta owns the property. What EWSA would like, with the full support of and in conjunction with the Board, is control of the property to build a reservoir on the property which would serve Dawson County’s water needs and also assist our neighbors. He states preserving over 8,000 acres and providing a water source that is badly needed for the Atlanta area is a win-win scenario. The reason EWSA has partnered with American Water is because they saw a need to partner with the largest privately held water provider in the United States which lends itself to the immense nature of the project. This is a publically traded company that has the experience and funding to complete this project without any money coming from Dawson County. Mr. Jerry Daws, President of Republic Resource Company, Inc. 4392 Peachtree Road Northeast, Atlanta, reported his company has not designed a firm concept since the final decision would be made by the City of Atlanta and the Dawson County Board of Commissioners. What was presented was an accurate proposal, making the Dawson County a true and legal partner giving a substantial financial incentive to join with Republic Resource Company. He believes if the reservoir is to be built here, Dawson County should benefit from the project in as many ways as possible. Mr. Daws reports some have stated that the proposal from Republic Resources Company, Inc, because of the unknown financial situations, is incorrect and based on empty promises. He assured the Board that based on projections, long term, the numbers are valid. Numerous proposals were submitted and are available. Mr. Daws is available at any time for questions by the Board. He reminded the Board that the decision is not pre-determined and the Board does have veto power on how this project moves forward. Chairman Berg asked if anyone else wished to speak about the proposed Shoal Creek Reservoir and Grand Park and hearing none closed the hearing. He thanked the public for their comments and reminded citizens that no vote is scheduled. The Board wanted to hear from the constituency to get their stance and to obtain more information. There will be more hearings in the future and any decisions made will be made by the Board, in an open meeting, and there will be prior notice to the public. ---PAGE BREAK--- ADJOURNMENT: Motion passed unanimously to adjourn. APPROVE: Mike Berg, Chairman ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Voting Session Mintues - October 6, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS VOTING SESSION MINUTES – OCTOBER 6, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 6:00PM ROLL CALL: Those present were Chairman Berg; Commissioner Pichon, District 1; Commissioner Swafford, District 2; Commissioner Hamby, District 3; Commissioner Nix, District 4; County Attorney Homans; County Clerk Simpson and interested citizens of Dawson County. County Manager Tanner was absent. OPENING PRESENTATION: Doris Cook, Chairman of DASA: Dawson Against Substance Abuse INVOCATION: Chairman Berg PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Chairman Berg ANNOUNCEMENTS: Commissioner Nix announced “Are You Smarter than a 10 Year Old” will be on Tuesday, October 11, 2011. Georgia’s First Lady Sandra Deal will host. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Motion passed unanimously to approve the minutes from the Special Called Meeting held on September 8, 2011. Nix/Swafford Motion passed unanimously to approve the minutes from the Voting Session held on September 15, 2011. Pichon/Swafford Motion passed unanimously to approve the minutes from the Special Called Meeting held on September 22, 2011. Pichon/Nix ---PAGE BREAK--- APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA: Motion passed unanimously to approve the agenda with the addition of O. Executive Session. Swafford/Pichon PUBLIC COMMENT: None ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS: None ZONINGS: None PUBLIC HEARINGS: None OLD BUSINESS: None NEW BUSINESS: Proclamation: Red Ribbon Week Motion passed unanimously to approve the Proclamation for Red Ribbon Week as submitted. Nix/Pichon Approval of the Application for Permit for Assembly: Southern Odyssey Relay Run Adventure Motion passed unanimously to approve Southern Odyssey Relay Run Adventure’s application for permit for assembly. Pichon/Hamby Approval of the Kiosk Sign contract renewal ---PAGE BREAK--- Motion passed unanimously to approve the Kiosk Sign contract renewal. Swafford/Nix Approval of the Tire and Waste Oil Recycling Program Motion passed unanimously to approve the Tire and Waste Oil Recycling Program as presented by staff. Pichon/Hamby Approval to hold the annual MDA Boot Drive Fundraiser Motion passed unanimously to approve the annual MDA Boot Drive Fundraiser. Swafford/Pichon Approval of the Section 125 Agreement Motion passed unanimously to approve the Section 125 Agreement as required by the IRS. Nix/Pichon Approval to accept a pontoon boat donation Motion passed unanimously to accept a pontoon boat as a donation with the caveat that no dollar amount is listed on the letter of acceptance. Hamby/Swafford Approval of used furniture surplus Motion passed unanimously to declare the list of used furniture as surplus. Pichon/Nix Discussion of the annexation objections Motion passed unanimously to direct the County Attorney to resolve the annexation issues as detailed in the letter from Mr. Kevin Tallant, Esq. on behalf of the City of Dawsonville dated October 6, 2011. Correction of Library Board appointments Mrs. Donna Weaver & Mr. Ragin Hause – July 1, 2011 to June 30, 2014 Motion passed unanimously to appoint Mrs. Donna Weaver and Mr. Ragin Hause to the Library Board from July 1, 2011 to June 30, 2014. Pichon/Swafford Discussion of letter to GDOT regarding Kilough Church Road and GA400 intersection Motion passed unanimously to postpone this issue for two weeks. Pichon/Nix ---PAGE BREAK--- PUBLIC COMMENT: None EXECUTIVE SESSION: Motion passed unanimously to enter into executive session for the purposes to discuss one legal issue with the County Attorney. Nix/Swafford/Pichon/Hamby Motion passed unanimously to come out of executive session. Swafford/Hamby/Pichon/Nix ADJOURNMENT: Motion passed unanimously to adjourn. APPROVE: Mike Berg, Chairman ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Voting Session Minutes - October 20, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS VOTING SESSION MINUTES – OCTOBER 20, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 6:00PM ROLL CALL: Those present were Chairman Berg; Commissioner Pichon, District 1; Commissioner Swafford, District 2; Commissioner Hamby, District 3; Commissioner Nix, District 4; County Attorney Homans; County Manager Tanner; County Clerk Simpson and interested citizens of Dawson County. OPENING PRESENTATION: Wee Books Program Update – Lionel Graves INVOCATION: Chairman Berg PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Chairman Berg ANNOUNCEMENTS: Commissioner Nix reported $16,200.00 was raised for READ during their annual Are You Smarter than a 10 Year Old event. The Rotary Club of Dawson County won the event. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Motion passed unanimously to approve the minutes from the Voting Session held on October 6, 2011. Pichon/Nix APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA: Motion passed unanimously to approve the agenda with the addition of item L12) Kare of Kids Parking & Liability Exclusion for Moonshine Festival. Swafford/Pichon PUBLIC COMMENT: ---PAGE BREAK--- None ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS: None ZONINGS: Chairman Berg announced that if anyone had contributed more than $250 to the campaign for public office and wished to speak they will have to fill out a form which will be made available to them. Under normal program, ten minutes will be given to those who wish to speak in favor of or opposition to with some redirect, time permitting. Chairman Berg explained the policy and procedure for public comment on zoning issues as per the Rules of Procedure for the Dawson County Board of Commissioners. ZA 11-07 – Randall Scott Owen has submitted a request to rezone 11.16 acres of TMP L08-109 from VCR (Vacation Cottage Restricted) to RA (Residential Agricultural). The property is located at 264 Dean Couch Road. Applicant requested the common driveway stipulation recommended by staff be waived. Applicant has been approved for a separate driveway by the County Engineer for the second residence. The Planning Commission approved with stipulations: At least one of the residences remain owner occupied; and the primary residence must be existing prior to moving in the second residence. Mrs. Barbara Owen, 3052 Cardinal Drive, Dahlonega, Georgia, spoken on behalf of the applicant. She reported the additional structure will serve as a caregiver’s home for her elderly father-in-law and grandfather-in-law. Chairman Berg asked if anyone wished to speak in favor or in opposition to the application and hearing none closed the hearing. Planning Director McKee explained the stipulations recommended by the Planning Commission by reporting the primary residence must be occupied prior to the second structure (caretaker’s residence) being built. ---PAGE BREAK--- Motion passed unanimously to approve ZA 11-07 with the stipulation that at least one of the residences remain owner occupied; and the primary residence must be existing prior to moving in the second residence. Pichon/Nix Appeal to VR 11-02 – Allen McEntyre has submitted a request to vary from the Dawson County Land Use Resolution Sect. 307, C-3 for a reduction of the side yard setback from 10 feet to 3 feet 6 inches on TMP L08-040. The property is located at 1098 Chestatee Point and zoned VCR (Vacation Cottage Restricted). The Planning Commission approved with stipulations. 1) Applicant shall meet the requirements of the Dawson County Separation Ordinance in the continued construction of the garage by ensuring the rear and side walls and the roof, out to 15 feet, are constructed from a non-combustible material and have a fire resistant rating of not less than one hour subject to approval by the Dawson County Fire Marshal’s office and the Building Official. 2) The Applicant shall provide an as-built survey showing the structure in relation to the adjacent lot prior to the issuance of the Certificate of Completion. 3) Applicant shall install a sprinkler system in both garages to be connected to existing residential waterline and 4) Applicant shall install hard piping from each downspout to travel past the rear of the residence and lead out to the lake. An appeal of the Planning Commission’s decision has been filed and must be heard by the Board of Commissioners of Dawson County. Planning Director McKee reported concerns with the third stipulation. At this time, the garages are not proposed to be insulated. In the winter, the sprinkler system may freeze and bust. As an alternative to the stipulation, he asked the Board to consider mandating the homeowner using 5/8 Type X Sheetrock in the garage which provides an additional one hour of protection giving a total of a two hour firewall between the two homes. This stipulation would require all walls and ceilings be protected with 5/8 Type X Sheetrock. The applicant of the appeal, Ms. Annette Larson, 1092 Chestatee Point, Dawsonville, Georgia and 2547 Lake Brooks Court, Atlanta, Georgia answered questions from the Board. She built the home on Chestatee Point in 1981 as a retirement home. Ms. Larson presented pictures, diagram and documentation to the Board (see minutes). She reports the diagram was given to the County by Mr. McEntyre showing the architectural, land plan, and the diminished property value of her home. The pictures were taken from the corner of her lot. The Planning Commission told Mr. McEntyre he would have to request a variance for the double garages in 1993. At that time, the variance was denied due to the fire hazard. The double garages have been partially built on the same foundations. Ms. Larson expressed concerns over the fire hazard, drainage and erosion issues and the homeowner proceeding without a permit. She reported the day prior, Planning Director McKee visited Ms. Larson’s home and saw water in her basement. Ms. Larson reports this has never been an issue before and cites the additional structures as the cause for the water sitting over her basement. She asked the Board to consider a compromise and only allow Mr. McEntyre to have one double garage. ---PAGE BREAK--- Mr. McEntyre, 1098 Chestatee Point, Dawsonville, Georgia, reported he built his house in 1993. Ms. Larson built her home on the setback which is five feet from the property line. A fire hydrant is located within five houses from his lot. When the variance was denied he lost 10’ of concrete which he could not build. The garage would be made of vinyl with a tin roof. This will be the only property in the area with a four car garage. Mr. Bob Randall is the builder for Mr. McEntyre, of Roswell, Georgia reported the closest angle of Mr. McEntyre’s garage to Ms. Lawson’s property line is 3’6” but stressed this is only at one point and not a side of the structure. Given Ms. Lawson’s home is five feet from the property line a total of 8’6” is between the structures at one point. There are other areas that are 10-12 feet from Ms. Lawson’s home. Planning Director McKee reported the residential building inspector approved the rear setback but when he noticed the side setback is where the rear of the building sits against a stop-work order was issued and the applicant immediately applied for a variance. The permit was issued in good faith. The stop- work order was issued within three days of the original permit. Motion passed unanimously to deny the appeal to the variance. Pichon/Hamby Motion passed unanimously to approve the variance request with the following stipulations: 1) The applicant shall meet the requirements of the Dawson County Separation Ordinance in the continued construction of the garage by ensuring the rear and side walls and the roof, out to 15 feet, are constructed from a non-combustible material and have a fire resistant rating of not less than one hour subject to approval by the Dawson County Fire Marshal’s office and the Building Official. 2) The applicant shall provide an as-built survey showing the structure in relation to the adjacent lot prior to the issuance of the Certificate of Completion. 3) The applicant shall use 5/8 sheetrock in the garage which provides an additional one hour of protection giving a total of a two hour firewall between the two homes and 4) The applicant shall install hard piping from each downspout to travel past the rear of the residence and lead out to the lake. An appeal of the Planning Commission’s decision has been filed and must be heard by the Board of Commissioners of Dawson County. Pichon/Hamby PUBLIC HEARINGS: None OLD BUSINESS: ---PAGE BREAK--- None NEW BUSINESS: Approval of the 2012 Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) Grant Application Motion passed unanimously to allow staff to submit the 2012 Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) Grant application as submitted. Swafford/Pichon Approval of the Dawson County Emergency Services Boot Drive Fundraiser for Kare for Kids Christmas Motion passed unanimously to approve the DCES Boot Drive Fundraiser for Kare for Kids Christmas. Pichon/Hamby Approval of #157-11- IFB: Emergency Medical Supplies Motion passed unanimously to approve #157-11 IFB: Emergency Medical Supplies with Midwest Medical Supply Company. Pichon/Swafford Approval of the proposed 2012 Payroll and Holiday Calendar Motion passed unanimously to approve the 2012 Payroll and Holiday Calendar. Nix/Pichon Approval of the proposed 2012 BOC Meeting Schedule Motion passed unanimously to approve the 2012 BOC Meeting Schedule. Pichon/Nix Approval of #154-11- RFP & Contract: Interior Signage for the new government center Motion passed unanimously to award #154-11 RFP and Contract: Interior Signage for the new government center to APCO Graphics in the amount of $52,882.00. Although they are not the low bidder, they are the lowest qualified bid. The low bidder did not submit a bid in accordance stipulated in the bid package. Approval to send GDOT letter regarding Kilough Church Road and GA400 intersection Motion passed unanimously to approve sending GDOT another letter regarding Kilough Church Road and GA400 intersection. See minutes for copy of letter. Pichon/Nix ---PAGE BREAK--- Approval of the Alcohol License Fee Schedule Motion passed unanimously to approve the new Alcohol License Fee Schedule effective immediately. Pichon/Swafford Approval of the Kelly Bridge Road contract with GDOT Motion passed unanimously to approve the Kelly Bridge Road contract with GDOT. Swafford/Pichon Kare for Kids Parking & Liability Exclusion for Moonshine Festival Motion passed unanimously to approve the use of county parking lots by Kare for Kids during the Moonshine Festival. Parking lots include the new government center, extension office, health department and the K.H. Long building. Swafford/Hamby ADJOURNMENT: Motion passed unanimously to adjourn the business session of the agenda. PUBLIC COMMENT: Mrs. Sherril Pendergast – Honeysuckle Trail APPROVE: Mike Berg, Chairman ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Voting Session Minutes - November 3, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS VOTING SESSION MINUTES – NOVEMBER 3, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 6:00PM ROLL CALL: Those present were Chairman Berg; Commissioner Pichon, District 1; Commissioner Swafford, District 2; Commissioner Hamby, District 3; Commissioner Nix, District 4; County Attorney Homans; County Manager Tanner and interested citizens of Dawson County. County Clerk Simpson was absent. OPENING PRESENTATION: Dawson Community Chorale INVOCATION: Chairman Berg gave a special prayer for two citizens that passed away this week: Jerry Beck and Al Jorgensen PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Chairman Berg ANNOUNCEMENTS: Commissioner Swafford announced Veteran’s Day Celebration will be on Friday, November 11, 2011. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Motion passed unanimously to approve the minutes from the Voting Session held on October 20, 2011. Nix/Swafford APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA: Motion passed unanimously to approve the agenda as submitted. Swafford/Hamby PUBLIC COMMENT: ---PAGE BREAK--- None ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS: None ZONINGS: None PUBLIC HEARINGS: None OLD BUSINESS: None NEW BUSINESS: Approval of the Farm City Week Proclamation Motion passed unanimously to approve the Farm City Week Proclamation. Pichon/Nix Approval of the Citizens Corps Grant Motion passed unanimously to approve the Citizens Corps Grant as submitted. Swafford/Hamby Approval of the GDOT Local Government Lighting Project Agreement Commissioner Hamby motioned to approve as submitted. Motion did for lack of a second. Motion passed unanimously to direct the County Manager to respond to the request stating due to our current budget situation, that we respectively decline the agreement at this time. Swafford/Pichon Resolution and Approval of De-Annexation Request ---PAGE BREAK--- Motion passed unanimously to approve the de-annexation request as submitted. Pichon/Swafford Approval to send letter to Jack Daniel’s Distillery Motion passed unanimously to approve sending a letter to the Jack Daniel’s Distillery with changes to the proffered letter (see minutes). Nix/Pichon ADJOURNMENT: Motion passed unanimously to adjourn. APPROVE: ATTEST: Mike Berg, Chairman Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Voting Session Minutes - November 17, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS VOTING SESSION MINUTES – NOVEMBER 17, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 6:00PM ROLL CALL: Those present were Chairman Berg; Commissioner Pichon, District 1; Commissioner Swafford, District 2; Commissioner Nix, District 4; County Attorney Homans; County Manager Tanner; County Clerk Simpson and interested citizens of Dawson County. District 3 Commissioner Hamby was absent. OPENING PRESENTATION: State of Georgia Fire Safety Winners from Dawson County Middle School – Deputy Chief Tim Satterfield INVOCATION: Chairman Berg PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Chairman Berg ANNOUNCEMENTS: Chairman Berg reported the next Board of Commissioners meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 22, 2011 at 4pm. This variation in schedule was made on November 4, 2010 when the 2011 meeting schedule was adopted. All meetings were advertised as prescribed by law. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Motion passed unanimously to approve the minutes from the minutes of the Special Called Meeting held on October 5, 2011. Nix/Swafford Motion passed unanimously to approve the minutes from the minutes of the Voting Session held on November 3, 2011. Swafford/Pichon APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA: ---PAGE BREAK--- Motion passed unanimously to approve the agenda as submitted. Nix/Swafford PUBLIC COMMENT: None ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS: None ZONINGS: VR 11-05 – Ann Sheffield Wilson has submitted an application to vary from the approved ZA 10-03 stipulation stating paving and striping to be completed by the applicant prior to business relocation. Applicant requests a business be allowed to relocate to the property prior to completing the paving and striping. TMPs 115-059, 115-060, 115-062, & 115-082. The property is currently zoned C-HB (Highway Business Commercial). Chairman Berg announced that if anyone had contributed more than $250 to the campaign for public office and wished to speak they will have to fill out a form which will be made available to them. Under normal program, ten minutes will be given to those who wish to speak in favor of or opposition to with some redirect, time permitting. Chairman Berg explained the policy and procedure for public comment on zoning issues as per the Rules of Procedure for the Dawson County Board of Commissioners. Mrs. Ann Sheffield answered questions from the Board. She reported the EPD is in the process of monitoring the gas wells and cannot pave until environmental tests has been completed. She asks the Board to allow a business to open and have time to pave and stripe the parking lot after EPD has cleared the lot of any issues. The EPD believes the project will be completed by the end of the year. The first test was performed in spring 2011 and was clear of any contaminates. Chairman Berg asked whether anyone wished to speak in favor or opposition to the application and hearing none closed the hearing. Motion passed unanimously to approve the variance with the following stipulations: ---PAGE BREAK--- 1. The applicant shall provide a paving/striping schedule for the unpaved section of the parking lot. 2. The applicant shall stripe the existing paved portions of the lot per the approved site plan including the entrance from War Hill Park Road. 3. The applicant shall designate at a minimum twelve (12) paved parking spaces for the occupied space. 4. The applicant shall block off the unpaved sections of the parking lot to vehicular traffic and parked vehicles until the lot is complete. (Paved/Striped) 5. The applicant shall complete the paving/striping of the remainder of the parking lot within 60 days of final EPD findings. Pichon/Swafford PUBLIC HEARINGS: None OLD BUSINESS: None NEW BUSINESS: Approval of the Application for Permit: Reindeer Run Motion passed unanimously to approve the application for permit as submitted. Nix/Swafford Approval to name and dedication of the “Jeannine McGee Voting Center Motion passed unanimously to rename the voting center to the Jeannie McGee Voting Center. Pichon/Nix Approval of the proposed Blacks Mill Creek WRF Trustee request Motion passed unanimously to deny the trustee request for Blacks Mill Creek Water Reclamation Facility as presented by Mr. Ken Curren. Pichon/Swafford Approval of the #163-11 IFB Hot Asphaltic Concrete Mix Contract Motion passed unanimously to award #163-11 IFB Hot Asphaltic Concrete Bid vendor and contract to Baldwin Paving Company as recommended. Nix/Swafford ---PAGE BREAK--- Board Appointment to the Tree Preservation Board: Ms. Ruth Sutton Term: 11/17/2011-12/31/2012 Motion passed unanimously to appoint Ms. Ruth Sutton to the Tree Preservation Board from November 17, 2011 to December 31, 2012 as she is filling an unexpired term. Swafford/Nix ADJOURNMENT: Motion passed unanimously to adjourn. APPROVE: ATTEST: Mike Berg, Chairman Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Voting Session Minutes - December 1, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS VOTING SESSION MINUTES – DECEMBER 1, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 6:00PM ROLL CALL: Those present were Chairman Berg; Commissioner Pichon, District 1; Commissioner Swafford, District 2; Commissioner Hamby, District 3; County Attorney Homans; County Manager Tanner; County Clerk Simpson and interested citizens of Dawson County. District 4 Commissioner Julie Hughes Nix was absent. OPENING PRESENTATION: Cpt. Tony Wooten – Shop with a Cop Program INVOCATION: Chairman Berg PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Chairman Berg ANNOUNCEMENTS: Chairman Berg expressed condolences on behalf of the Board of Commissioners to the family of John Rowan. Mr. Rowan was a reserve officer for Dawson County Sheriff’s Department and brother of Maj. Greg Rowan. Commissioner Swafford announced Etowah Masonic Lodge $222 F. & A.M. will hold a cornerstone ceremony for the new Government Center on Sunday, December 4, 2011 at 3pm. A reception at the lodge will follow. Chairman Berg reported the Grand Opening of the new Government Center will be on Tuesday, January 3, 2012 at 10am. There will also be an Open House taking place from 5pm-7pm for citizens that cannot attend the earlier program. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: ---PAGE BREAK--- Motion passed unanimously to approve the minutes from the Voting Session held on November 17, 2011. Pichon/Swafford APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA: Motion passed unanimously to approve the agenda. Swafford/Pichon PUBLIC COMMENT: None ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS: None ZONINGS: None PUBLIC HEARINGS: None OLD BUSINESS: None NEW BUSINESS: Approval of the Fiscal Agent Request by Family Connection FY2012 Motion passed unanimously to approve the request to be the fiscal agent for Family Connection for FY2012. Swafford/Hamby Approval of the Senior Center Fundraiser for Senior’s Christmas Motion passed unanimously to approve the request to hold a breakfast fundraiser for the Senior Center Senior’s Christmas. Pichon/Hamby ---PAGE BREAK--- The breakfast will be on December 9, 2011 from 7am-8:30am costing $5.00 per plate. Approval of the CIE Adoption Resolution Motion passed unanimously to adopt the CIE Resolution as submitted. Pichon/Swafford Approval of Board Appointment Nominations: Motion passed unanimously to appoint Ms. Gwen Kellar from January 1, 2012 – December 31, 2014 and Ms. Mary Simmons from January 1, 2012 - December 31, 2012 to the Joint Development Authority. Both will be filling unexpired terms. Motion passed unanimously appoint Mrs. Sharon Fausett to the Tax Assessors Board from January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2014. Pichon/Hamby Discussion of Sunday Sales of Alcohol Vote on March 2012 ballot Motion passed unanimously to approve to Resolution to Call for a Referendum regarding Retail Package Sales of Alcohol on Sunday. Pichon/Hamby Motion passed unanimously to approve to Resolution to Call for a Referendum regarding the Consumption on Premises on Sunday. Pichon/Hamby ADJOURNMENT: Motion passed unanimously to adjourn. APPROVE: ATTEST: Mike Berg, Chairman Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- ---PAGE BREAK--- Voting Session Minutes - December 15, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS VOTING SESSION MINUTES – DECEMBER 15, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 6:00PM ROLL CALL: Those present were Chairman Berg; Commissioner Pichon, District 1; Commissioner Swafford, District 2; Commissioner Hamby, District 3; Commissioner Nix, District 4; County Attorney Homans; County Manager Tanner; County Clerk Simpson and interested citizens of Dawson County. OPENING PRESENTATION: Cathy Brooks, Executive Director of Keep Dawson County Beautiful – Bring One for the Chipper! and Time Capsule Update INVOCATION: Chairman Berg PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Chairman Berg ANNOUNCEMENTS: Commissioner Swafford asked for prayers for Winford Burt, father-in-law to Probate Judge Jennifer Burt. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Motion passed unanimously to approve the minutes from the Voting Session held on December 1, 2011. Pichon/Swafford APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA: Motion passed unanimously to approve the agenda with the following changes: • Items L 1-4, 7, 8, and 11 be moved to a consent agenda; and • Spelling correction of Allen Hahn’s name under L8. Nix/Swafford ---PAGE BREAK--- PUBLIC COMMENT: None ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS: None ZONINGS: None PUBLIC HEARINGS: None OLD BUSINESS: None NEW BUSINESS: CONSENT AGENDA: Motion passed unanimously to approve the consent agenda as proffered. • Approval of the Fiscal Agent Request by Mentoring Program FY2012 • Approval of the GA Trauma Commission Ambulance Grant • Approval of Surplus Items from Emergency Services • Approval of the Fund Balance Policy • Approval of changing the Official Meeting Place for the Dawson County Board of Commissioners • Approval of the following Board Appointments: o Tax Assessor’s Board:  Re-appointment of Joe Bosworth and Allen Hahn ---PAGE BREAK--- January 1, 2012-December 31, 2014 o EMS Advisory Board:  Re-appointment of EMA Director Billy Thurmond & Chief Lanier Swafford January 1, 2012-December 31, 2013 o Board of Health:  Re-appointment of Dr. Larry Anderson and Elaine Maple January 1, 2012-December 31, 2017 o Park & Recreation Board: 1 Appointment  Re-appointment of Warren King January 1, 2012-December 31, 2016 • Acceptance of Addendum to the IGA between Dawson and Pickens County Fire Pichon/Nix Approval of the IFB #158-11 Generator Maintenance Services Motion passed unanimously to award the IFB #158-11 Generator Maintenance Services to WW Williams Southeast, Inc. and approve the contract as submitted. WW Williams is the second lowest bidder. The decision to select WW Williams as the choice vendor is due to service issues. Pichon/Swafford Approval of the 2011-2016 System Wide Recreation Master Plan Update Motion passed unanimously to postpone this issue until the date certain (February 9, 2012 Work Session). Pichon/Swafford Appointment of County Manager and County Attorney 2012 Motion passed unanimously to appoint Kevin Tanner as the County Manager for 2012. Pichon/Hamby Motion passed unanimously to appoint Joey Homans as the County Attorney for 2012. Pichon/Hamby ---PAGE BREAK--- Appointment of Vice Chairman of the Board of Commissioners for 2012 Motion passed unanimously to appoint District 2 Commissioner James Swafford as the Vice Chairman of the Dawson County Board of Commissioners for 2012. Pichon/Nix EXECUTIVE SESSION: Motion passed to enter into executive session for the purposes of legal and personnel. Nix/Swafford/Pichon/Hamby Motion passed unanimously to come out of executive session. Nix/Swafford/Pichon/Hamby Motion passed unanimously to appoint Danielle Yarbrough as the County Clerk for 2012. The change in staff will be effective January 1, 2012. Pichon/Swafford ADJOURNMENT: Motion passed unanimously to adjourn. APPROVE: ATTEST: Mike Berg, Chairman Davida Simpson, County Clerk ---PAGE BREAK--- Work Session Minutes - December 22, 2011 DAWSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS WORK SESSION MINUTES – THURSDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2011 G.L. PETE GILLELAND CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL 415 HIGHWAY 53 EAST, DAWSONVILLE 4:00 p.m. L. NEW BUSINESS 1. Presentation of the Chestatee Emergency Physicians Agreement for Inmate Medical Services – Sheriff Billy Carlisle This item will be placed on the 01/05/2012 Voting Session Agenda. 2. Presentation of the 2012 Jail and Parking Lot Lease – CFO Cindy Campbell This item will be placed on the 01/05/2012 Voting Session Agenda. 3. Presentation of the IFB #162-11 Janitorial Supplies – County Manager Kevin Tanner This item will be placed on the 01/05/2012 Voting Session Agenda. 4. County Manager Report This item was for information only. 5. County Attorney Report This item was for information only. APPROVE: Mike Berg, Chairman ATTEST: Davida Simpson, County Clerk